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Health & Fitness

The Facts About Flaxseed & Yummy Ways to Add It to Your Diet

For centuries, flaxseed (also known as linseed) has been recognized as a superfood by many cultures all over the world. Consuming flaxseed for its benefits goes all the way back to the 8th century when King Charlemagne made his loyal subjects eat the seeds because he believed they were extremely healthful. In Latin, flax was given the name Linum usitatissimum meaning “most useful.” 

What are some of the numerous health benefits associated with the consumption of flaxseeds? Flaxseeds are an excellent source of Omega-3 essential fatty acids, the “good” fats that have been shown to have heart-healthy effects. Flaxseeds are rich in lignans which are one of the major classes of phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are estrogen-like chemical compounds with antioxidant qualities, which are able to scavenge free radicals in the body. Flaxseeds are also rich in both soluble fiber (which dissolves in water) and insoluble fiber (which doesn’t dissolve in water). 

According to the Mayo Clinic, soluble fiber dissolves with water and creates a gel-like substance that helps lower cholesterol and glucose levels. Insoluble fiber absorbs water which adds bulk to your digestive tract and helps to move things through quickly. 

In addition to being an excellent source of “good” fats, antioxidants and fiber, modern research is beginning to find evidence to suggest that flaxseed can also help lower the risk of diabetes, cancer and coronary heart disease, improve immune function and brain functions (e.g. memory), act as an anti-inflammatory, and help prevent and control high blood pressure.  

*Note: I have read that that pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and people suffering from bowel obstructions should avoid supplementing with flaxseeds because of its estrogen-like properties and high level of fiber. 

There are two main types of flaxseed: golden flaxseed and brown flaxseed. Although their nutritional profiles are very similar, I usually buy golden flaxseeds since Dr. Christiane Northrup has suggested in one of her books that she likes the taste better. I don’t really know if there’s any significant difference in taste or brands, but I always buy the Bob’s Red Mill Organic Natural Raw Whole Golden Flaxseeds.

Read more about how good flaxseed is for you, how you can easily add it to your diet and a yummy recipe at:http://veganamericanprincess.com/all-about-flaxseeds-and-recipe-for-peanut-butter-banana-flaxseed-po...

Ellen Francis

Vegan American Princess

Voted #2 in Skinny Scoop's Top 25 Vegan Blogs of 2013

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