Flaxseeds, also known as linseeds are tiny brown seeds that have been cultivated and praised for thousands of years, particularly for their extraordinary health benefits. They contain protein, fiber and a rich dose of heart-healthy fats, as well as bursting with vitamins and minerals that benefit every cell in your body.
Whether you sprinkle them on oats or waffles, bake with them or whether you blend them into smoothies, here are some of the fantastic health benefits of including this little super power in your diet:
1. It Contains Lots of Fiber
Studies have shown that we need to monitor our fiber intake to experience optimum health, and flaxseeds have proven to support a fiber-rich diet. One tablespoon meets 11% of the daily required amount of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health through regularity, toxin release and fat loss.
2. It’s High in Protein
Our bodies require amino acids, otherwise known as proteins to repair and grow muscle tone, and flax seeds are surprisingly high in them. 100 grams offers 36% of the daily requirement for protein, giving 18 grams of pure muscle power with zero cholesterol.
3. It’s a Great Source of Omega 3’s
Omega 3 fatty acids are prominent in the health industry, and it’s because of their remarkable ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Flaxseeds are a rich source of Omega 3’s, helping to reduce chronic inflammation and the many diseases caused by it.
4. It Strengthens Teeth and Bones
These tiny seeds contain excellent doses of calcium, offering up to 25% of the daily requirement per 100 grams. This leads to stronger, healthier teeth and bones, as well as preventing arthritis, gum disease and bone mineral loss.
5. It’s Packed with Iron
Each serving of flaxseeds, even when blended into a smoothie contains a decent dose of iron, which makes it a great circulation and blood health booster. A diet rich in iron ensures that red blood cell counts are up and oxygen is more readily transported throughout your body.
6. It Helps to Balance Female Hormones
The balancing act between estrogen and progesterone can be sensitive and needs extra support during menopause. Flaxseeds contain lignans that have been proven to convert to chemicals which proactively balance female hormones. This improves reproductive health and reduces the symptoms of menopause.
7. It’s Full of Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals are powerful antioxidants that have been proven to not only fight free radical damage, but also to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Flaxseeds are full of phytochemicals and lignans that help to reduce breast, colon and prostate cancer, as well as rejuvenating cells onto a healthier state.
8. It’s Loaded with Magnesium
100 grams of flaxseeds meets 98% of the daily requirement of magnesium, which is an important mineral in nerve, muscle and brain function. Magnesium has been proven to reduce muscle cramps, eliminate fatigue, decrease stress and optimize nerve function, which leads to better health and a better body in general.
9. It Gives You Healthy Hair and Skin
Flaxseeds are one of the densest plant based sources of alpha-linolenic acid in the world, which is an essential Omega 3 fatty acid. It has been proven to relieve skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, as well as giving making our hair stronger and thicker.
10. It Promotes Weight Loss
A diet rich in fiber and fueled with moderate amounts of healthy fats leads to weight loss, making flax seeds the perfect snack or inclusion during the day. The high fiber content will keep you fuller for longer while boosting digestive health, and the fatty acids will ensure that your cholesterol levels stay balanced.
11. It’s Vitamin and Mineral Rich
Each serving of flaxseeds contains no less than: magnesium, calcium, potassium, manganese, selenium, phosphorus, B-vitamins, Omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants, flavonols, protein and fiber, as well as low doses of sodium. This makes this tiny brown seed one of nature’s super foods, and should be eaten regularly for your body’s best health.
Sources:
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/seed-and-nut/health-benefits-of-flaxseed.html
https://www.webmd.com/diet/benefits-of-flaxseed?page=2
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flax
https://draxe.com/10-flax-seed-benefits-nutrition-facts/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/tiny-flaxseed-has-big-benefits.aspx
https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/best-foods-for-arthritis/flaxseed.php