Flaxseed provides many benefits for the body’s systems due to its richness in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid that can contribute to lower cholesterol levels, decreased inflammation in joints, and constipation relief.
Flax seeds oil and flax seed also Flaxseed is commonly known as Alsi (Gujrati, Hindi Punjabi), Jawas (Marathi), Tishi (Bengali), Agasi (Kannada) are popular and in demand among vegetarians and vegans who want Omega-3 fatty acids but from a non-animal. Nevertheless, each one can get the benefit by adding flaxseeds in the diet. Flaxseed oil contains higher levels of Omega-3 than the seeds, but actually flax seed are more benefits than just the oil.
Flaxseed was cultivated in Babylon as early as 3000 BC, according to the Flax Council of Canada. By the 8th century, King Charlemagne believed so strongly in the health benefits of flaxseed that he passed laws requiring his subjects to consume it. Fast-forward 13 centuries, and some experts would say we have preliminary research to back up what Charlemagne suspected all those years ago.
Health Benefits Of Flaxseeds:-
1. Flax Fights Cholesterol
The consumption of flaxseed is associated with a reduction in total cholesterol, including the LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides. Study after study has shown a positive response to eating ground flax seed daily. Eating low fat Foods, increasing your exercise, limiting the salt, sugar and eating flax seed daily are a few ways that you can win the battle against high cholesterol.
2. Flax Fights Diabetes
Nutritionists are instructing their diabetic patients to eat flax daily. It has been discovered that the omega-3 fat and high fiber in flax may play a role in the fight against diabetes. In a study conducted by the University of Toronto, participants who ate flaxseed bread had blood sugar levels 28% lower an hour after eating than their counterparts who ate bread made with wheat flour!
3. Inflammation
Another health benefit of flaxseeds is their ability to counter inflammation associated with certain health conditions. The omega-3 fatty acids in the flax limit inflammatory reactions, thus reducing inflammation in the joints, skin and kidneys. The omega-3 fatty acids also serve as catalysts for the absorption of iodine, which is helpful for improving breast health.
4. Digestive Health
The high content of compact fiber in flaxseed is also effective for reducing bloating and pain in the digestive system. After the flaxseed is ingested, it is not broken down in the body, making the stool bulkier and easier for the body to excrete. It is important to ingest the flaxseed with adequate amounts of fluids in order to eliminate waste more efficiently through the bowels.
5. Cancer
Recent studies have suggested that flaxseed may have a protective effect against cancer, particularly breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer. At least two of the components in flaxseed seem to contribute, says Kelley C. Fitzpatrick, MSc, director of health and nutrition with the Flax Council of Canada.
In animal studies, the plant omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseed, called ALA, inhibited tumor incidence and growth.
Further, the lignans in flaxseed may provide some protection against cancers that are sensitive to hormones without interfering with the breast cancer drug tamoxifen. Some studies have suggested that exposure to lignans during adolescence helps reduce the risk of breast cancer and may also increase the survival of breast cancer patients, Thompson says.
Lignans may help protect against cancer by:
- Blocking enzymes that are involved in hormone metabolism.
- Interfering with the growth and spread of tumor cells.
Some of the other components in flaxseed also have antioxidant properties, which may contribute to protection against cancer and Heart disease.
6. Strengthens Immune System
Flax seed is a good source of lignans and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) which studies have shown to promote a strong immune system.
7. Promotes Brain Health
Flax helps the body to produce DHA (docosahexaenoic) which promotes brain health and function. It has a positive effect on mood, fighting tiredness, and depression.
8. Contains Phytoestrogens
Flax is the richest known plant source of phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens play a key role in stabilizing hormone levels which helps to reduce irritability and moodiness.
9. Hot Flashes
One preliminary study on menopausal women, published in 2007, reported that 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed into cereal, juice, or yogurt twice a day cut the women’s hot flashes in half. And the intensity of their hot flashes dropped by 57%. The women noticed a difference after taking the daily flaxseed for just one week, and achieved the maximum benefit within two weeks.
10. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Home Remedy
Flax seed has been shown to relieve the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Simply take 1 teaspoon of flax seed oil three times daily for one month.
11. Natural Cure For Diabetes, Arthritis And Heart Ailments
For chronic disease such as diabetes, arthritis, gall disorders, and heart ailments, use the following home remedy:
- Combine 4 oz. of cottage cheese with 1.5 oz. of flax seed oil and 1 oz. of milk into a blender.
- Add honey or fresh fruits to add sweetness.
- Blend this mixture and drink daily each morning.
Storage Tip: Whole flaxseeds can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 year. Ground flaxseeds should be frozen in a dark container for up to 4 months.
Caution:
- People with diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) should avoid flaxseed due to its possible laxative effects.
- Consuming a large amount of flaxseed (not flaxseed oil) by mouth may cause obstruction of the intestines, especially when flaxseed is taken with too little fluid.
- Excessive intake of flaxseed and flaxseed oil may increase the risk of bleeding, based on early studies that show decreased clotting of blood.
- Flaxseed may stimulate menstruation or have other hormonal effects and could be harmful to pregnancy.
