Flax seed has been consumed as food for around 6,000 years. The tiny seeds of flax are great source of nutrient dense food. They are rich sources of anti oxidants, fibre, good fat and greatest source of magnesium also contain many minerals and trace elements. These impart a lot of health benefits.
Health benefits of flax seeds: It can be grinded and made powder by either roasting it or without roasting.
1). HIGH IN FIBRE AND LOW IN CARBOHYDRATE -- It contains both soluble and non-soluble fibres which can support colon detoxification , fat loss and reduce sugar cravings. Fibre is an important constituent of our diet for its role in digestion.
2). HEALTHY SKIN AND HAIR -- The ALA fats in flax seeds benefit the skin and hair by providing essential fats as well as Vit. B which reduce dryness and flakiness. It is helpful in acne and eczema. It can be mixed with essential oils and used as natural skin moisturiser.
3). Weight loss -- Flax seeds are now becoming part of weight loss programs. A study published in the journal of nutrition found that flax seed and walnut improved obesity and support weight loss. Healthy fat and fibres in flax increases satiety and ALA fats reduce inflammation. Flax seeds can be added to soup, salad and smoothies.
4). LOWERS CHOLESTEROL -- The journal of nutrition and metabolism found that adding flax seeds in a diet can naturally reduce cholesterol.
5). FLAX SEEDS ARE GLUTEN FREE-- Flax can replace gluten containing grains which are inflammatory, where as flax seed is anti inflammatory. So, flax seeds are great for those having coeliac disease or are gluten sensitive.
6). FLAX SEEDS ARE HIGH IN ANTIOXIDANTS-- It is the greatest source of Lignans. Lignans are unique fibre related polyphenols that provide us with anti oxidant benefits for aging,and hormone imbalance. Polyphenols support the growth of probiotics in the gut. Lignans also have anti viral and anti bacterial properties and help to reduce the number or severity of cold and flu.
7). DIGESTIVE HEALTH-- ALA in flax protects the lining of digestive tract and maintain GI health. Flax is the highest source of Magnesium in food. Fibres in flax help growth of friendly colon bacteria which help in cleaning the waste from a person's system.
8). CANCER -- Flax can reduce the risk of breast, endometrial and ovarian cancers.
9). Menopausal symptoms-- Can be used as alternative to hormonal replacement therapy because Lignans have oestrogen properties.