Flax seeds are available from flax plant and are the native to region that extends from India to Middle East. These seeds are found in oatmeal, whole grain breads, crackers, pasta, some cereals and meatless meal items. These seeds can further be purchased as ground, oil or whole. There are so many Flax Seed Benefits which you can enjoy just by taking it with your daily food.
More so, flax seeds have been gaining much popularity these days due to their health benefits. As for the beginners, these seeds help to control the cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Flax seeds are even known to promote bone health, are featured with anti inflammatory traits and even help in lowering down the menopausal symptoms. These seeds then help a great deal to regulate the hormones, fat metabolism and the central nervous system. They even help in reducing cancer, heart, diabetes and stroke risks.
Flax seeds are also featured with a number of uses. Due to their nutty taste, the seeds are even used as flavour enhancer. In the baked items, these seeds are used as egg substitute, for extra texture and even as replacement for flour. The flaxseed oil can be used as salad dressing instead of the olive oil. In case this is not sufficient, these seeds can be added to beverages, cooked with some vegetables and sprinkled on cereals and salads.
Flax seeds are featured with 75 times more amount of Lignan that is known for its capacity to halt and shrink the development of present colon and breast cancer tumours. Lastly, these seeds are great source of the Omega 3 fatty acids as well as fibre. The seeds are a showstopper among those who wish to lose weight.
5 Main Flax Seed Benefits
Fights cancer
Some studies show that flaxseeds have protective effect against prostate, breast and colon cancer. The lignan present in these seeds offer protection against the cancers which are sensitive to hormones and that too without interfering with the drugs. Also exposure to lignan during the adolescent years help to reduce the risk of facing breast cancer and also increases the survival rate of patients suffering from the same.
The lignans may protect against cancer through blocking the enzymes which are involved in the hormone metabolism as well as interfering with growth and spreading of the tumour cells. Some other components in these flaxseeds have antioxidant traits which contribute in protecting against heart disease.
Diabetes
Research suggests that regular consumption of lignans present in flaxseeds may improve the blood sugar and thus help people suffering from type 2 diabetes.
Weight management
Flaxseeds expand when they are ingested and so they make one feel fuller. You can take them half an hour before your meals in order to control your overall appetite. They are also low in carbohydrate level and thus suitable for those who wish to limit the consumption of sugar and starch.
Hot flashes
A study of the menopausal women in 2007 stated that about 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds mixed with juice, yogurt or cereal twice per day cut hot flashes to almost half. The women saw 57 percent drop in hot flashes. Women noticed the difference after taking flaxseeds daily for 1 week and enjoyed maximum benefits within just two weeks.
Great source of Omega 3 fatty acids
Flaxseeds are excellent source of the Omega 3 fatty acids and so are useful in regulating the blood pressure as well as controlling inflammation. It is mainly useful for all those who suffer from the problem of hypertension.
So, now as you are aware of what flaxseeds are and what health benefits they offer, you can easily buy flax seeds and enjoy the many benefits of flax seeds associated. These seeds can be used as it is but at the same time it is wise to note that they should not be cooked or heated.