Benefits of Flax Seeds

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Flax seeds are powerful food, rich in proteins, fibers, omega 3 oils, and lignans. It also contains many essential vitamins and minerals. This plant had been known in ancient Babylon since 3000 BC. Even at that time, flax seeds have been recognized as a super-food. Today’s researches suggest that the main three ingredients that make flax seeds super food are: Omega 3 essential fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. According to studies, the presence of omega 3 fatty acids can stop spreading tumor in animals and prevents it from growing further. On the other hand, lignans in flax seeds melt the plaque from blood vessel walls. In this way, they do not only decrease atherosclerotic plaque, but also lessen LDL or “bad” cholesterol. Therefore, flax seeds are very powerful foods that can prevent all kinds of cardiovascular diseases. The third essential ingredient in flax seeds is a fiber that affects glucose levels in a positive way, thus preventing diabetes from occurring. To learn more about the benefits of flax seeds, the article “Flaxseed” describes several studies that have examined its positive effects on human health.

There are no authorised health claims for flaxseed, but some research suggests it may have some possible health benefits.

Arthritis Research UK says evidence so far suggests that flaxseed oil isn’t effective for treating rheumatoid arthritis.

While flaxseed hasn’t yet been shown to improve heart disease risk, there’s some evidence that flaxseed and flaxseed oil may lower cholesterol levels. For instance, a 2008 study of 66 patients published in the British Journal of Nutrition, found lipid-lowering effects following a daily supplement of tablets containing flaxseed. However, the NHS says: “Evidence suggests that vegetarian sources of omega-3 fatty acids may not have the same benefits for reducing the risk of heart disease as those in oily fish.”

Ground flaxseed – but not flaxseed oil – may also help with menopausal symptoms. Research has shown that 40 grams per day may be similar to hormone therapy for improving mild menopause symptoms, such as hot flushes and night sweats. However, another study found no benefits of flaxseed in relieving menopausal symptoms.

Some study results suggest flaxseed may improve kidney function in people with lupus, but more research is needed. If you have lupus – or any other medical condition – it’s very important to talk to your doctor about any supplements you take.

Flaxseed is being studied for many other conditions, ranging from cancer to diabetes to osteoporosis. At this point, there is not enough evidence to support flaxseed for these conditions.

To use effectively all nutrients from flax seeds, it is important to learn how to prepare and keep it. Experts suggest grinding flax seeds because it increases absorption of this food. Grinding significantly raises utilization of flax seeds’ nutrients and facilitates its digestion. Nutritionists recommend keeping ground flax seeds in the refrigerator to prevent them from rancidity. They also suggest grinding flax seeds immediately before consumption instead of buying already a ground product. To do this, we need a simple kitchen gadget such as a blender or old coffee grinder. Flax seeds are good food supplement and can be added in muesli, soup bread, or bakery.