Flax Seed

Flax seed is considered a super food that is gluten free. It’s a rich in fiber, omega 3 fatty acids and lignans. These ingredients maintain a healthy heart and are essentials to combat diseases such as diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Flax Seed is a natural & 100% chemical free product. One can ingest a whole flax seed and still receive some nutritional benefits, but grinding the flax seed would allow the body to absorb it faster and more effectively. Hence this will allow your body to absorb all the nutrients and reap all the benefits.

Quick Facts about  Flax Seed

• Reduces Cholestrol – Flax seed is rich source of high soluble fiber and it helps in maintaining proper gastrointestinal functions. Insoluble fiber plays a vital role in keeping the heart healthy by lowering  LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
• Assists in Weight loss – As rich source of high fiber content, the seeds helps keep you full for longer periods of time thus cutting the urge of overeating.
• Prevents Cancer – The seeds are an abundant source of anti-oxidants which is one of the main agents that helps  in fighting cancer.
• Great alternative source of protein – Flax seed is a gainful source of dietary protein. It has a high essential amino acid index and could provide most of the daily intake of proteins that our body needs.
• Controls & Fights inflammation – It is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acid is the most active agent that fights inflammation in the body. Inflammation is one of the major causes for heart diseases, asthma, allergies, diabetes, and even certain cancers.
• Gluten Free – Flax seeds are 100% free of gluten and hence can be eaten by those with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• Helps Diabetics – It’s a rich source of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. This property aids in maintaining normal blood sugar levels in people suffering from diabetes.
• Maintaining good eye sight – the omega-3 fatty acids in the can reduce the risk of macular degeneration, an eye disease caused by damaged nerves in the eye. The seeds can also reduce the dry eye syndrome.
• Reduces ovarian dysfunction – Regular consumption of the by menstruating women can inhibit cycle changes and lead to a reduction of ovarian dysfunction.
• Excellent for Hair & Skin care – Flax seed treats skin inflammation caused by acne, eczema & rosacea. It is also doe very good job at repairing your hair and nails.

Nutritional Chart

Two table spoons of flax seed contains:

• 110 calories
• 6 g carbohydrates
• 4 g protein
• 8.5 g fat
• 6 g fiber
• 0.6 mg manganese (26 percent DV)
• 0.4 mg thiamine/vitamin B1 (22 percent)
• 80 mg magnesium (20 percent DV)
• 132 mg phosphorus (14 percent DV)
• 0.2 mg copper (12 percent DV)
• 5 mg selenium (8 percent DV)

How to Use Flax Seed

You can put 1 tsp flax seed with any beverage of choice; or you can consume it on the side with water. It is important to have flax seed with liquids as it can obstruct the intestines and cause bloating.

To add flax seeds in smoothies and juices put one tablespoon in a bowl. Pour enough water to submerge the seeds and leave them overnight. Add the swollen seeds in a smoothie or juice mixture and blend or stir. The nutty flavor goes well with fruits and vegetables.

One tablespoon of can also be added in hot oatmeal, cereals or fruit yogurts to add an extra punch of nutrition.

To add a nutty flavor to cookies, cupcakes, cakes etc you can add 1 tablespoon of flax seed in baking goodies.