Just the FLAX, ma'am
We’re not going to tell you that flaxseed and flaxseed oil can cure cancer, because it can’t. We’re going to stick to the flax:
Flax is one of the oldest cultivated crops.
The true blue color of the flax plant produces a blue fabric dye, and when the flower is boiled, it produces a range of colors from tan to apricot.
Ancient Egyptians made fine linens from flax fiber, which was used for mummification and burial shrouds.
Cultivated flax made its first appearance on the North American continent about 400 years ago.
Many of today’s blue jeans are still made from flax and a blend of cotton.
Flax is a tiny seed with huge health benefits!
Facts 1- 5 are definitely interesting. But the flax fact we’re sure you’re most wondering about is number six. Because flaxseed is a good source of many nutrients, including protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, thiamine, lingans, and copper, it has said to be a miracle seed. In fact, The American Heart Association suggests that flaxseed and flaxseed oil should be added to everyone’s diet because of all of its health benefits.
CANCER PREVENTION
Flaxseed is rich in lignans, which are plant compounds that have been studied for their potent cancer-fighting properties. Although flax doesn’t cure cancer, some studies have shown that consuming 25 grams of flaxseed a day may reduce tumor growth in both breast and prostate cancer. Its benefits have been linked to breast cancer prevention, particularly for postmenopausal women.
AID IN WEIGHT LOSS
There’s no magic click-your-heels-together-three-times solution to weight loss. But flaxseed can help the process: One study found that a drink with flax fiber tablets containing 2.5 grams of soluble fiber reduced feelings of hunger and overall appetite. This is likely because soluble fiber slows digestion and increases feelings of fullness, which may be especially useful if you’re trying to lose weight.
IMPROVES DIGESTIVE HEALTH & RELIEVES CONSTIPATION
With so much soluble and insoluble fiber packed into each tiny seed, flaxseed may help promote regular bowel movements and improve digestive health. They are truly a powerhouse, also keep your gut microbiome in healthy balance.
REDUCES CHOLESTEROL
Cholesterol reduction may be due to the fiber in flaxseed, which binds to bile salts before being excreted by your body. To replenish these bile salts, cholesterol is pulled from your blood into your liver, resulting in lower levels.
STABILIZES BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS
Flaxseed may lower blood sugar due to its soluble fiber content. Thus, it’s a beneficial addition to your diet if you have type 2 diabetes.
BOOSTS COGNITION
“They’re high in omega-3 fatty acids, a plant-based source, which is important for vegans or individuals who do not eat seafood," says Amy Shapiro, R.D. "This type of fat helps to protect the brain.”
Both flaxseed and flaxseed oil are easy to use and can be added to a variety of recipes. Here are a few simple ways to increase your intake:
Add flaxseed powder to water or sprinkle it into your smoothies.
Drizzle flaxseed oil on fresh salads in place of salad dressing.
Sprinkle ground flaxseed over hot or cold cereal for extra fiber and flavor.
Mix flaxseed into your favorite yogurt.
Give baked goods a healthy twist by mixing flaxseed into cookies, muffins, or breads.
Combine flaxseed with a bit of water for a simple egg substitute.
Incorporate flaxseed into meat or veggie patties next time you fire up the grill.
And here’s one last fact that’ll help you flax: Ground flaxseed is much easier to digest than whole flaxseed. That’s partly because your intestines are unable to break down the tough outer shell of whole seeds. That said, you can still buy whole flaxseed, grind it in a coffee grinder, and store the ground flaxseed in an airtight container for easy use.
If you have any questions about flax facts or how flaxseed can help you, click the button below for a Complimentary Assessment.