____Flaxseed in Latin stands for "most useful", and with the numerous amount of benefits hidden within these tiny little wonders, it doesn't fail to live up to the meaning of its name. Below, you will discover the many different ways flaxseeds can boost your health.
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This post was originally published September 4, 2014.
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Weight buster
A research study showed that people who ate flaxseeds lost 37% more weight than those who didn't. Flaxseeds have copious amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids and also contain a high amount of fiber. Both of these work together to increase satiety by slowing down the passing of food through your guts. Along with keeping you full for longer, this also gives the nutrients more time to get absorbed.
Heart protector
Flaxseeds contain chemical compounds that inhibit inflammation that induce damage to our blood vessels. Other chemicals serve as antioxidants. In addition to that, they lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase HDL (good cholesterol) content, and help stabilize blood pressure.
Cancer fighter
Flaxseeds are filled with antioxidants that fight chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can lead to cancer. It is particularly effective in reducing the risk of hormone related cancer like prostate cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer. The lignans contained in flaxseeds keep our hormones in balance, and inhibits the functioning of toxins or carcinogens in our body.
Flips the depression switch
The high levels of ALA present in flax seeds is actually an essential fatty acid. This cannot be made by the body and must be supplied via diet. Research has shown that ALA aids with mood improvement. Omega-3 fatty acids, in flaxseeds, are also important in fighting against depression. This is because they help maintain the structure of the cell membrane which allows the right neurotransmitter to bind and signal. As chemical messengers, these fatty acids carry information between neurons as well.
Prevents hot flashes
Estrogen like compounds present in flax seeds, called lignans, can help sooth hot flashes. In one study with 28 women, it was found that those who consumed 4 tbsp of ground flaxseeds every day for six weeks, had a significant reduction in the occurrence of hot flashes. Their intensity decreased as well. That said, it might not work for all women but regularly eating flaxseeds is bound to give your body loads of benefits.
How to incorporate flaxseeds into your diet
There are so many easy ways to make flaxseeds part of your diet. To make them more digestible, grind them up in a coffee or spice grinder. Then, add it to your morning oatmeal, or yogurt or even to your morning smoothie. Flaxseeds are very versatile, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the advantages this super-seed provides.
