10 Amazing Health Benefits of Flaxseeds
Flaxseed is the seed derived from the plant
Linum usitatissimum, and has been praised for its extraordinary health
benefits. Flaxseeds are loaded with Omega-3 essential fatty acids, are
extremely high in fiber, and contain Lignans, which help ease menopausal
symptoms. The powerful little seeds also help prevent heart disease,
stroke, diabetes, and cancer.
There are two different types of flaxseeds,
which are the brown and yellow versions. Flaxseeds can be added to
yogurts, cereals, and even sprinkled on salads. Flaxseed oil is a
substitute for the traditional seed variant, which can be used as a
cooking alternative to regular oil. It can help treat osteoarthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, and promote low blood pressure.
Precautions:
Pregnant women and possibly breastfeeding mothers should avoid
taking ground flaxseed or flaxseed supplements.
Consult with your physician if you are taking blood-thinners, as the
flaxseed can increase the risk of bleeding.
People suffering from prostate cancer, high blood pressure,
hypothyroidism, and hormone-sensitive conditions, should consume the
flaxseeds with caution, and consult with their doctors.
People taking diabetes medications, to stabilize the blood sugar
levels should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly.
Drink plenty of water with the flaxseeds to prevent gastrointestinal
side effects.
Avoid large amounts of flaxseeds, as it may cause intestinal
obstruction.
You'll certainly want to add flaxseeds to your dietary intake, after
reading about the top 10 incredible health benefits below!
1) Promotes Weight Loss
The omega-3 essential fatty acids help keep your metabolism in check and
give you energy throughout the day. The magical seeds are high in B
vitamins, potassium, magnesium and zinc, all essential components for
weight loss. Flaxseeds are also gluten-free and can be mixed together
with low fat or Greek yogurts, for a perfect and healthy snack during
the day.
2) Lowers Bad Cholesterol Levels
Flaxseeds can help keep the LDL cholesterol (the bad guys) down while
promoting HDL cholesterol levels (the good guys) in the system. The LDL
cholesterol helps keep your blood pressure regulated, and prevents heart
disease. You can eat 2-4 teaspoons per day or 1-2 capsules of flaxseed
oil. Consult with your physician before taking the supplement version.
3) Helps Fight Cancer
The lignans contained in flaxseeds can help reduce the risks for breast
cancer, due to their anti-estrogen components. The lignans assist in
blocking enzymes that are involved in the production of hormone
metabolism, which causes the growth and spread of tumor cells. Flaxseeds
also prevent prostate, ovarian and colon cancer. The omega-3 fatty
acids play a crucial role in fighting off the cancer cells.
4) Protects Against Heart Disease
The ALA omega-3 fatty acids of the flaxseeds are known for reducing the
build-up of fats in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. They also
help reduce inflammation, while preventing arterial clots, that cause
strokes and heart attacks. Keep your heart healthy with a daily dosage
of flaxseeds to your diet!
5) Promotes Healthy Skin
The high anti-inflammatory properties of flaxseeds, help to keep your
skin fully hydrated and moisturized. The essential omega-3 fatty acids
also reduce some chronic skin conditions, such as rosacea, acne, eczema,
skin allergies, sunburn, and even protect against skin cancer. You can
try rubbing a little flaxseed oil gently on your skin on a daily basis
to ensure smooth clean skin.
6) Helps Treat Menopausal Symptoms
Flaxseeds are high in lignans, which contain estrogen-like qualities
that can reduce menopausal symptoms in women. The lignans act like
conventional hormone replacement therapy, which combat hot flashes, mood
swings, and prevent ovarian cancer. The suggested dosage of flaxseeds
is a single tablespoon, two or three times per day. Please consult with
your doctor beforehand.
7) Keeps Blood Sugar Stabilized
Flaxseeds are widely used to promote healthy blood sugar levels in
people who suffer from Type II diabetes. The alpha-linolenic acid and
fiber of the tiny seeds, help prevent high blood sugar levels in the
body. They also improve insulin sensitivity in glucose intolerant
people.
8) Promotes Healthy Hair
The vitamin E contained in flaxseeds helps provide adequate nourishment
to your hair follicles and roots. The omega-3 fatty acids replenish
brittle hair, prevent scales, and also alopecia (hair loss). The
essential fatty acids of the seeds aid in the promotion of strong
healthy hair.
9) Improves Digestion
The high soluble fiber content contained in flaxseeds helps to promote
healthy digestion and prevents colon cancer. Consumption of ground
flaxseeds allows for the smooth passage of food through the intestines
as well. Make sure you drink plenty of water to aid in
the digestion
process, and stay fully hydrated all day.
10) Detoxifies the Body
Flaxseeds are rich in fiber, which flushes out harmful toxins from the
body, cleanses the colon, and helps promote a healthy immune system. The
detoxifying process is essential for combating chronic fatigue and
inflammation symptoms. Add a tablespoon of flaxseeds to your morning
bowl of oatmeal, and reap the detoxifying benefits!