A good source of healthy fat, antioxidants, and fiber, Flaxseeds is rich in protein, lignans, and essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid which are also known as ALA or Omega 3. Nutrients in flaxseeds may help to lower the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart diseases. Flaxseed is acquired from the flax plant which has high fiber content and low carbohydrates. It also helps with the symptoms of menopause and regulates menstrual cycles and even prevents certain types of cancer.
Flaxseed is available in different types such as seeds, oil, powder, tablets, capsules, and flour. It is a “super food” as more scientific research points to their health benefits. It is the most popular Ayurvedic Herb which is helpful in preventing constipation, diabetes, cholesterol, cancer, and many other health problems.
Nutritional Value of Flax seeds –
Whenever we talk about the nutritional value of Flax seeds, it always gains the title of superfood due to its rich in vitamins and minerals.
Calories: 37
Protein: 1.3 grams
Carbs: 2 grams
Fiber: 1.9 grams
Total fat: 3 grams
Saturated fat: 0.3 grams
Monounsaturated fat: 0.5 grams
Polyunsaturated fat: 2.0 grams
Omega-3 fatty acids: 1,597 mg
Vitamin B1: 8% of the RDI
Vitamin B6: 2% of the RDI
Folate: 2% of the RDI
Calcium: 2% of the RDI
Iron: 2% of the RDI
Magnesium: 7% of the RDI
Some interesting facts about flaxseeds –
Flaxseed can do wonders to your health.
It is rich in fiber, fat, protein, and various vitamins and minerals.
All the nutrients present in flaxseeds may offer protection against cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems.
Ground flaxseeds enable the body to absorb the nutrients more effectively.
Health Benefits of Flaxseeds –
Prevents cancer – Flaxseeds contains Omega 3 fatty acids to disrupt the growth of cells and prevent their development. It also contains Lignans that help to protect against a variety of cancers, especially when it is consumed on a daily basis.
Promotes healthier skin and hair – It is a great way to improve the quality of hair, skin, and nails. Simply add 2 tbsp of flaxseeds to your breakfast daily and experience the wonders.
Promotes healthy weight loss – Flaxseeds are well known for preventing and managing obesity and often leads to healthy weight loss. This is so because of high amounts of healthy fats and fiber which keeps you feeling satisfied and full for much longer as compared to other foods.
Rich in antioxidants – Flaxseed is high in lignans which are essentially fiber related polyphenols that give the body all the benefits of antioxidants like cellular health, anti-aging, and hormone balance. They are anti-viral and antibacterial and can, therefore, help avoid common colds and flu.
A source of Omega-3 fatty acid – Flaxseed contains a healthy amount of ALA, which is considered as good fat and it is crucial to incorporate in daily lifestyle.
Side-effects & allergies of flax seed –
Since Flaxseed is quite safe to consume, but there are certain instances which are caused due to overconsumption or unsafe consumption. It is highly recommended to pregnant women and breastfeeding women to avoid taking flaxseeds as it often acts like estrogen and may be harmful to the pregnancy or the infant. People with gastrointestinal obstruction cannot consume flaxseed as it helps with bowel movements and may speed things along faster than the body can naturally handle these obligations. A person who has a bleeding disorder are recommended not to consume flaxseed as it may slow down the process of blood clotting and leading to more bleeding.
Flaxseed is a versatile food ingredient that helps in many ways and also benefits people with diabetes. You must incorporate flaxseed in your diet and experience the wonders it causes to your health.