For something so
small, flaxseed has big benefits. Recent studies have shown that flaxseed,
known to the world for thousands of years, may aid in lowering cholesterol,
stabilizing blood sugar, reducing bone loss, promoting weight loss, increasing immunity, and fighting cancer,
Flaxseed is high
in:
·
Vitamins and
minerals, including most of the B
vitamins, magnesium, and manganese
·
Fiber, both soluble and insoluble
·
Phytochemicals, including many powerful antioxidants such as lignans. In
fact, because it’s a plant, flaxseed is one of the best sources of lignans .
·
Omega-3 fatty
acids, key to fighting inflammation.
Flaxseed is a mega-source of the plant version of omega-3 . Flaxseed oil has about
50 percent Omega 3— five times more than walnut oil or canola oil, which are
the next highest sources of Omega 3.
Flaxseed Benefits
Flaxseed may:
·
Lower blood
cholesterol and blood sugar levels. The soluble fiber in
flaxseed has been shown to lower cholesterol, helping to prevent the buildup of
plaque, which can clog arteries and lead to high blood pressure, stroke, or
heart attack. Fiber is also believed to lower blood sugar levels, which is
important for people who have type 2 diabetes.
·
Reduce bone
loss. A study of diabetic rats showed a delay in bone loss after
they were fed flaxseed, thanks to its concentration of fatty acids.
·
Help with
weight management. Flax expands
when ingested, making you feel fuller. You can take flaxseeds 30 minutes before
meals to control your appetite.
·
Improve
digestive health. The fiber in
flaxseed can help relieve constipation and make you more regular.
·
Improve Menopausal Symptoms
Flax, like soy, is a
phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens are estrogen-like substances that are found in
plants. Phytoestrogens act as a natural hormone therapy and help to stabilize
hormonal levels. This stabilization of hormonal levels helps to lesson the
symptoms of menopause like Hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, moodiness .
·
Increase
immunity. Omega 3 has
been shown to decrease inflammation, which allows your immune system to
function better. Preliminary research suggests that flaxseed can help relieve
autoimmune and inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis,
and lupus.
·
Fight cancer. Studies show that flaxseed may have a role in fighting
cancer, particularly colon and breast cancer. The benefit is based on its high concentration
of lignans, which are believed to inhibit tumor growth.
Using Flaxseed
Flaxseed
should be ground before consumption as
your body is better able to digest it. Whole flaxseed may pass through
your intestine undigested, which means you won't get all the health benefits. Ground flaxseed should be kept in an airtight container in
the refrigerator; it should be good for about 90 days.You should be 1 tbsp ie 3
tsp ground flaxseed daily .One tablespoon of
ground flaxseed provides 1.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids and provides 36
calories.
Because flaxseed
is high in fiber, when adding it to your diet, start with small amounts and
increase it slowly. Drink plenty of water. As
flaxseed is good source of soluble fiber
it is important to drink plenty of water when eating flaxseeds, otherwise
constipation may result.
How to add Flaxseed in Your Diet
Flaxseed has a
light, nutty taste. Here are some ways to add it to the foods you already eat
and enjoy:
·
Sprinkle flaxseed on
your cold cereal or hot oatmeal at breakfast.
·
Sprinkle on salads or
in soups.
·
Mix a tablespoon of
ground flaxseed into your curd.
Flaxseed is a
great way to get fiber and important nutrients into your diet. Experiment with
it in your favorite recipes to boost their nutrition profile.
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