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Flaxseed or linseed is a tiny seed that contains varieties of components that have great health benefits.
Flax is a big source of fiber ( soluble). It helps to decrease cholesterol levels and consequently lower heart disease risk.
8 important things about the health benefits of flaxseed
Flaxseed is heart-friendly
Studies done at the University of Toronto showed that daily consumption of 25 to 50 grams of flaxseed can significantly lower the cholesterol level and lower the chances of heart disease like CAD, heart attack, and heart block, etc.
Flaxseed contains soluble fiber as well as it is a rich source of ALA(alpha-linolenic acid), both are really heart-friendly and have great health benefits.
Flaxseed has anticancer property
Because of the presence of lignans in flaxseed, which converts in the body to compounds similar to the body’s own estrogen it is thought that hormone-related cancer like breast cancer or colon cancer can be prevented or treated with flaxseed.
In animal studies, it has already been proved that flaxseed can reduce the tumor size significantly.
Breast cancer patients with Tamoxifen should not eat flaxseed in a large amount.
Flaxseed cures constipation
The insoluble fiber present in flaxseed also has major health benefits.
These fibers help to clear our bowels.
What is the recommended daily amount of flaxseed?
One to two tablespoons of ground flaxseed daily.
Flax contains no gluten and is very inexpensive.
You can eat whole flaxseed but they tend to come as it is.
Hence ground seeds are preferable for better absorption of nutrients.
Flaxseed should be kept in the fridge
Yes, the half-life of flaxseed is limited. So it should be kept in the fridge.
Check before use.
If it breaks down with heat then it is not a good choice to cook.
Flaxseed and flax oil: which has better health benefits?
Flax oil contains only omega3 fatty acids but not fiber.
But flaxseed contains all, so flaxseed is always a better choice.
Caution
- Pregnant or breast-fed mothers should not eat large amounts.
- Breast cancer patients taking tamoxifen should not eat flaxseed in large quantities.
How to use flaxseed?
To use flaxseed:
- Add it to muffin batter, cereal, pieces of bread, pancake mixes, etc.
- Stir ground flaxseed into yogurt or smoothies, juice, or applesauce.
- Sprinkle on salad for a nutty flavor.
- Make a pesto sauce with fresh basil, garlic, flaxseeds, flax oil, and grated parmesan cheese.
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