Flaxseed – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

Also known as linseeds, flaxseeds are a staple in many healthy diets, due to their high amounts of micronutrients. They are taken from flax, which, according to MedicalNewsToday.com, is one of the oldest fiber crops in the world, and is the same fiber from which linen is made. Flax has been cultivated in ancient Egypt and China, and has been favored for its health benefits since as far back as the eighth century. Ground flaxseeds are best for consumption, with whole flaxseed sometimes passing through the body undigested.

List of known nutrients

According to AuthorityNutrition.com:

• Alpha-linolenic acid
• Chlorogenic acid
• Copper
• Essential fatty acids
• Ferulic acid
• Gallic acid
• Glycosides
• Iron
• Lignans
• Linoleic acid
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Omega-3
• Omega-6
• Phosphorus
• Potassium

Medicinal uses for flaxseed

Even a small amount of flaxseeds can give one great nutritional advantages. They are known for being a treatment for hair fall, particularly those caused by hormonal imbalance and stress, Food.NDTV.com said. Flaxseeds address these issues and regulate any imbalances, thereby promoting a healthy head of hair.

Flaxseeds are particularly beneficial for women. They contain a good amount of lignans, which keep estrogen levels in check. They can help reduce symptoms of menopause, such as flushing and night sweats. They can also help stabilize irregular periods, as well as severe PMS. They support uterine function, can control heavy menstrual bleeding, and also lower the risk of breast cancer.

Flaxseeds are cholesterol-free, contributing to lower blood pressure levels, and promoting overall heart health.

Flaxseeds are high in fiber, making them an ideal digestion aid. Regular consumption of flaxseeds can lead to improved bowel movements, and can be done to treat diarrhea and constipation.

They also contain a substantial amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which, along with lignans, are believed to prevent the growth of cancerous cells.

The seeds have appetite suppressing properties that help aid in weight loss.

Flaxseed may also be efficient against:

• Bronchitis
• Coughs
• Diabetes
• Psoriasis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Body systems supported by flaxseed

Here are the body systems that benefit from avocado, according to WHFoods.com:

• Cardiovascular system
• Colon disorders
• Digestive system
• Immune system
• Stomach

Ways to use flaxseed

Flaxseeds add a unique texture and taste to many dishes, from baked goods to salads. According to Shape.com, a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds can make breakfast more nutritious by adding them to a cup of Greek yogurt, oatmeal, smoothies, shakes, and even French toast. At the same time, flaxseeds can also be used to bread chicken, or as a substitute for eggs. They can also be used in muffins and bread, and mixed into meatloaf, meatballs, or casseroles.

Where to learn more

• 10+ Great Health Benefits and Uses of Flaxseed
• Without genetically modified soy or dwindling fish – Flaxseed meets omega-3 needs
• How Flaxseed Benefits Our Health
• Research find flaxseed can help prevent, treat hormone-associated cancers
• Flaxseed oil could reduce the risk of osteoporosis
• Study: flaxseed oil shown to reduce blood pressure

Summary

Flaxseeds can prevent hairfall.

They can stabilize hormonal imbalances and provide relief for extreme menopause and PMS symptoms.

Flaxseeds can stablize irregular periods, support uterine function, and control heavy menstrual bleeding.

They can lower the risk of breast cancer.

Flaxseeds lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.

They are good for heart health.

They are good for digestion, and can prevent constipation.

They can prevent cancer.

Flaxseeds contribute to weight loss due to their appetite suppressing properties.

Sources include:

MedicalNewsToday.com
AuthorityNutrition.com
Food.NDTV.com
WHFoods.com
Shape.com