Flaxseeds – benefits and ways to use
Often we hear the tag ‘super-food’ when it comes to flaxseeds. But why is it being recognized as a super food and what are the benefits associated with these tiny brownish seeds? Also, how safe is it to consume flaxseeds and how much should you consume if you plan to have it on a regular basis? If these questions have been there in your mind for quite some time and you are curious to know the answers, keep reading:
BENEFITS OF FLAXSEEDS
Highly Nutritious: A rich store house of nutrients that flaxseed is, it supplies your body with a variety of vitamins and minerals. Did you know that 1 tbsp flaxseeds can give you approximately 1.3g protein, 2g fibre, 1600mg Omega-3 fatty acids apart from a good amount of vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron and Potassium? Most of the health benefits associated with flaxseed are mostly attributed to the fibre, Omega-3 fatty acids and lignans that it contains. While flaxseeds can be easily eaten by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike, it acts as an important source of Omega-3 fats, especially if you do not eat fish.
Reduces The Risk Of Cancer: Lignans with antioxidant properties help promote better health and even reduce the risk of cancer significantly. It is known to lower the risk of breast cancer, especially in women in post menopause phase and prostate cancer in men.
Rich Source Of Fibre: A rich source of dietary fibre, flaxseed helps regularize bowel movements, reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol level and regulate blood sugar levels in your body. It promotes better digestion and prevents constipation. Flaxseeds, on account of presence of insoluble fibre content, are known to be particularly useful for people with Type 2 diabetes.
Rich Source Of Protein: Flaxseeds supply you with the plant-based protein of superior quality, rich in amino acids. It helps strengthen your immunity and in case you are thinking of reducing intake of animal protein, you can certainly bank on flaxseeds for your dose of proteins. READ MORE – Overnight Hair Growth Seeds Hair Spray Recipe
HOW TO CONSUME FLAXSEEDS?
- Flaxseeds are quite versatile and can be added to different kinds of food items as an add-on. Try sprinkling some ground flaxseeds in your bowl of breakfast cereals, mixing with your yoghurt or adding them to your muffins and cookies while baking.
- It is better to have ground flaxseeds considering that they are easier on your digestive system as compared to whole flaxseeds.
- If you are using flaxseed oil, do not use it for high temperature cooking, you can drizzle some for your salad dressing instead.
- Do not go overboard with your consumption of flaxseeds. Around 1 tablespoon everyday is enough for reaping benefits. READ MORE – RICE OVERNIGHT REMEDIES for longer hair and clear skin
CAUTION
Refrain from taking flaxseeds under the following conditions (or better still, ask your doctor before consuming flaxseeds if you are in the following conditions):
- Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
- Hormone-sensitive conditions or cancer like endometriosis, ovarian cancer or uterine fibroids
- Bleeding disorders