What Are Flax Seeds?
Flax seeds are tiny, round seeds that grow inside the fruit of the flax plant. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Flax seeds are often used in baked goods because they add a nutty flavor and texture.
They’re also great for heart health. Studies show that eating flax seeds may reduce cholesterol and lower blood pressure.
Flax seeds contain lignans, compounds that help prevent cancer and boost immunity. Lignans are found in abundance in flax seeds, making them a superfood!
The Origins Of Flax Seeds
Flax is an annual herbaceous flowering plant in the genus Linum. Its flowers are hermaphroditic, meaning both male and female organs exist within each flower. Flax is native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia, though it is not found naturally in North America. Flax is often referred to as linseed because of its high oil content. Flax seeds contain approximately 30% oil, making them one of the richest sources of vegetable oil available. Flax seed oil contains omega 3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain development and function. Flaxseed oil also contains lignans, which may help prevent cancer.
Flaxseeds are a type of seed that grows inside a fruit pod. They contain high amounts of omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients. Flaxseeds are often used as a dietary supplement because of their high levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid that cannot be produced by the body. ALA is converted by the body into longer chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These two types of omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain development and function, cardiovascular health, immune system function, and joint health.
Flax Seeds Reduces The Risk Of Cancer
Flaxseeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain development and function. Omega-3s help prevent heart disease and stroke, and reduce inflammation. A 2013 study found that women who ate flaxseed daily had a lower incidence of breast cancers. Another study showed that regular consumption of flaxseed lowered the risk of prostate cancer. Lignans are another class of antioxidant that may help protect against certain types of cancer. Recent research suggests that lignans may play an important role in protecting against breast cancer. However, there are conflicting studies about whether lignan intake increases the risk of breast cancer.
Flax Seeds Eases Symptoms Of Arthritis
Flaxseed contains omega 3 fatty acids, which are essential nutrients for the body. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish oil, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Flaxseed also contains alpha linolenic acid (ALA), an important nutrient for healthy skin, hair, and nails. According to the American Cancer Society, there is not enough evidence to recommend flaxseed for cancer prevention. However, there is evidence that flaxseed reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. There is also evidence that it may reduce the risk of breast cancer.
People can also take it as a supplement (500–2,000 mg per day) or as an extract (100–200 mg per day). The anti-inflammatory diet is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. It includes lots of vegetables and fruits, nuts and seeds, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
Flax Seeds Improves Cholesterol And Heart Health
Flaxseed contains lignans, which are plant compounds that act like hormones in the body. Lignans are found in flaxseed, sesame seeds, alfalfa sprouts, and other foods. Lignans may help lower LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. A study published in 2011 showed that consuming flaxseed may help prevent heart disease. Researchers gave either flaxseed oil or placebo to participants in the study for 12 weeks. After taking the supplements, the participants had significantly lower levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
A 2011 review found that consuming foods rich in plant compounds called lignans may reduce cholesterol levels. Lignans are phytonutrients that are found in many plants, including flaxseed, sesame seeds, oats, and apples. A 2012 review found that eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids may lower your risk of heart disease. Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fats that are found in oily fish like salmon and mackerel.
Flax Seeds Improve Blood Sugar
Phytoestrogens are plant compounds found in soybeans, flaxseed, red clover, alfalfa, and others. Phytoestrogens are similar to estrogen and act like it in the body. Some studies suggest that consuming foods high in phytoestrogens could help prevent certain diseases, including heart disease, osteoporosis, and cancer. However, there is also evidence suggesting that phytoestrogens might increase the risk of breast cancer and prostate cancer. There is still not enough research to determine whether phytoestrogens are safe for everyone.
A 2016 animal study found that mice fed a high fat diet supplemented with flaxseed had lower fasting glucose and insulin levels than those fed a normal diet. A 2018 review concluded that there is insufficient evidence to recommend flaxseed supplementation for prevention or treatment of diabetes.
Flaxseed oil may help reduce blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, there is not enough evidence to recommend its use in clinical practice. Flaxseed oil contains lignans, which are phytoestrogen that may affect hormone function. Lignans have also shown antiandrogenic activity, meaning that they may interfere with male hormones. Some studies suggest that flaxseed oil may increase LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, although other studies show no effect.
Flax Seeds Prevent Constipation
Flax seeds are a superfood because they’re packed with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals. They’re also great for preventing constipation.
When we eat flax seeds, our digestive system absorbs them slowly, which helps keep things moving along smoothly. Flax seeds also help prevent hemorrhoids, reduce inflammation, and protect against colon cancer.
Reducing The Impact Of Radiation
Lignans are phytonutrients found in plants. They are also called plant estrogens because they act like estrogen in the body. Lignans have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and may protect against cancer. A study published in 2014 showed that lignan intake reduced the risk of breast cancer recurrence after treatment. Another study showed that women who took lignans before chemotherapy were less likely to experience severe side effects.
Benefits Of Flaxseeds For Inflammation
Flaxseed oil has many uses, including improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and boosting immunity. It’s high in omega 3 fatty acids, which may improve cardiovascular health, reduce risk of heart disease, and lower blood pressure.
Flax Seeds May Help Weight Loss
A recent study found that eating flaxseed could help you lose weight. A large review of 45 studies showed that taking flaxseed supplements reduced body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and belly fat. These effects were even greater when combined with exercise. Another study found that eating flours increased satiety, which means that you felt fuller after eating them.
Flax Seeds May Reduce Blood Pressure
Flax seed is well known for lowering blood pressure levels. Studies show that taking flaxseed supplements lowers blood pressure levels. Flaxseed contains omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, which help lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation.
A study published in the Journal of Hypertension found that flaxseed oil lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of 3.5mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 1.8mm Hg compared to placebo. While this is not a significant difference, it could still reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
How To Use Flax Seeds
Flaxseed comes in two forms: whole and ground. Whole flaxseeds are hulled seeds that contain the fiber endosperm and germ. Ground flaxseeds are simply the seed itself. Both types of flaxseed are high in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. Flaxseed contains lignans, phytochemicals that may help reduce breast cancer risk. Lignans are found mostly in the husks of the seeds.
Flaxseed should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Flaxseed will keep for about 1 year if stored properly. You can also freeze flaxseed. To thaw frozen flaxseed, place it in a bowl covered with a damp towel. Let sit overnight before using.
Whole linseeds keep longer. The outer shell protects the oil inside, keeping it fresh and ready to go. Whole linseeds should be kept in a cool, dark place, and will last about 1 year if stored properly. If you buy them already ground, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Annapoorna sells organic flax seeds in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
FAQs
What is the best time to eat flax?
The best time to eat flax seeds is in the morning or afternoon, as a part of a healthy breakfast or snack
Is it important to chew flax seeds?
It is important to chew flax seeds thoroughly or grind them before consuming to ensure optimal absorption of nutrients.
What is the best way to absorb flaxseed?
To absorb flaxseed effectively, it is recommended to consume it ground or in the form of oil, and always drink plenty of water to help digest the fiber in the seeds.
How do you activate flax seeds?
To activate flax seeds, you can soak them in water for several hours or overnight, which can help to break down the outer layer and make the nutrients more easily absorbable. This can also make them easier to digest and can be added to smoothies, cereal, or yogurt.
Can we eat flax seeds in empty stomach?
Yes, you can eat flax seeds on an empty stomach. It can be added to smoothies or mixed with warm water to make a tea.
How do you eat flaxseed for glowing skin?
Flaxseed can be eaten or applied topically for glowing skin. It can be added to smoothies or salads or mixed with yogurt or oatmeal. To use topically, mix ground flaxseeds with honey or aloe vera gel and apply on the skin.
What is organic flaxseed?
Organic flaxseed is flaxseed that has been grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
What are the benefits of eating flax seeds on an empty stomach?
Eating flaxseeds on an empty stomach may have various benefits, such as regulating digestion, aiding in weight loss, and promoting heart health due to their high fiber and Omega-3 content.
What is flaxseed in Malaysia?
Flaxseed is a type of seed that is available in Malaysia and is known for its high nutritional value, including a high fiber and healthy fat content.
How to eat flax seeds for glowing skin?
Flax seeds can be eaten for glowing skin by incorporating them into a healthy diet or by mixing them into smoothies, yogurt, or salads for a boost of skin-nourishing nutrients.
