Fact Sheets - Flaxseed.
Flax Seed is a plant that is grown for its oil rich seeds. The all natural oil is also known as Linseed Oil and it is highly recommended for general well being and nutrition. Flaxseeds have a nutty flavor and are excellent sprinkled on salads, cereals, and yogurt. Try Stirring 1 TBLS of ground flaxseed into your favorite fruit, vegetable juice, or milk.
Flaxseed is considered to be nature's richest source of omega-3 fatty acids. Flax Seed Oil also contains omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, lecithin, fiber, zinc and protein Flaxseed also provides approximately 50% more omega-3 oils than fish oil. Because our bodies are unable to produce Omega-3s, we must get them through our diet. Use whole flaxseed in bread dough, pancake, muffin or cookie mixes or add ground flaxseed to just about anything including soups, stews, baked food, cereals and drinks.
Flaxseed promotes cardiovascular health. The ultra-high levels of omega-3 fatty acids lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Flaxseed also has anti-cancer properties and, as a natural lubricant and a rich fiber source, lowers the risk of constipation and colon disease.
Flax supplements can boost immunity and provide fats that are precursors for brain development. (Nutritionists know that Omega-3 fatty acids aid the proper development of the brain and vision in babies and recommend pregnant mothers supplement their diet with a daily tablespoon of flaxseed or flaxseed oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding).
Flaxseed promotes healthy skin and has been used to treat many skin complaints such as acne.
Flaxseed fat can also help with slimming as fats high in essential fatty acids, such as flax, help to increase the body's metabolic rate which in turn helps to burn the excess, unhealthy fats in the body.
Numerous studies have shown that Omega-3 fatty acids help lower cholesterol and prevent clotted arteries that may result in strokes, heart attacks and thromboses.
Flax oil, flaxseed, and the omega-3 fatty acids they contain are good for your health as outlined below:
