The Health Benefits of Flaxseeds
Many products you see today in grocery stores boast flaxseed as a major ingredient. It’s in everything from breads and muffins to granola and frozen waffles. This healthy little seed contains several major components that contribute to its status as a superfood.
Flaxseed is high in fiber and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega 3 fatty acid that can promote beneficial responses to inflammation. Flaxseed contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps to push waste through the gastrointestinal system and relieve occasional constipation.
Consuming flaxseeds may promote healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure levels. The natural fiber present reduces the amount of bile reabsorbed in the intestines by acting as a receptor to the harmful cholesterol in the body. Flaxseed also contains lignans, which are compounds that mimic the action of the hormone estrogen. The lignan and ALA content in flaxseeds work together to support healthy cholesterol levels.
The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed help to promote the body’s response to inflammation and also serves as a catalyst for the absorption of iodine, which is helpful for supporting breast health. The Western diet tends to be high in omega-6 fatty acids and low in omega-3 fatty acids. This ratio may encourage inflammation in the body, whereas higher omega 3s can support healthy responses to natural inflammation processes. Many vegans and vegetarians who do not consume fish or fish oil rely on flaxseed to provide the omega 3 fatty acids so vital and essential for optimal health.
Try introducing more flax into your diet with products that contain whole flaxseeds, or consider buying milled or ground flaxseed which you can use in baking, cooking, or blended into smoothies. Flaxseeds provide much needed beneficial fats and fiber that support the overall health of the body in different ways.
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