Flax seeds come in brown and yellow or golden health food varieties. It is a functional food that is low in carbohydrates, high in fibre and rich in omega 3 fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid, antioxidants, micronutrients and lignans, which are a major class of phytoestrogens, which are estrogen-like chemicals . The mucilage, or slime, in the seed coat may strengthen and repair our gut mucus membranes when eaten.
Flax Seeds may
- lower cholesterol levels (LDL), especially in postmenopausal women and individuals with high cholesterol.
- lessen the severity of diabetes by helping to stabilize blood-sugar levels.
- reduce the glycaemia index of food items when added to recipes.
- benefit people with certain types of breast, prostate and other hormonally dependent cancers.
- work as a laxative due to its dietary fibre content.
- protect against vascular disease; phytoestrogens reduced blood pressure during mental stress induced by a frustrating cognitive task (a strong predictor of atherosclerosis progression).
- prevent hypercholesterolemia-related heart attack and strokes; they reduced the development of aortic atherosclerosis in rabbits. More detailed cardiovascular studies are needed.
- provide temporary improvement in skin and hair coat condition in dogs.
- Rats with declining brain levels of omega-3 fatty acids detected the dietary deficiency, identified and consumed a food source capable of restoring the essential fatty acid repletion.
Flax Oilmay
- benefit gut mucosa; a suggested beneficial effect on the gut mucosa in pigs.
- be useful in preventing ultra-violet C (UVC) damage, which leads to oxidative stress.
- improve bipolar depressive symptoms by adjunctive use of omega-3.
Adding Flax to Your Diet
- 100gm of ground flax seed supply about 450 kcal, 41gm fat, 28gm fiber, and 20gm protein.
- Crushing the seeds breaks the husk and makes it more digestible.
- Crush or grind the seeds and soak in water, then add to cereals or smoothies, drink with lots of water or use in bread recipes.
- Excessive consumption may result in intestinal blockage if taken without adequate liquid.
- Whole flax seeds are chemically stable.
- Ground flaxseed can go rancid at room temperature in as little as one week.
- Flax seed sprouts are edible, with a slightly spicy flavour.
- Flaxseed has been roasted, powdered and eaten with boiled rice, a little water, and a little salt since ancient times in Indian villages.
We are happy to advise you on your health matters.
Lin Bridgeford DO KFRP MSCC ICAK (UK) MSc
Registered Osteopath & Kinesiologist & Yoga Teacher
Aether Bios Clinic
Saltdean
Tel: 01273 309557
Mobile: 07710 227038
