The flax plant (also known as Linum usitatissimum) grows to be around 2 feet tall and produces flaxseed. Flax is a plant that originated in Southern Europe and Asia and is used as a food and fiber source. Flaxseeds are reddish brown seeds that contains Phytoestrogens; which are related to the hormone estrogen. Oil and soluble fiber are also present in these plants. The omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid can be found in flaxseed oil (ALA).
The nutty-flavored seeds may be eaten whole or crushed and cold-pressed to extract flaxseed oil. Flaxseed (also known as linseed) has been widely used in foods such as cereal and bread for decades.
Flaxseed is believed to help kidney function by reducing blood thickness, cholesterol levels, and swelling.
Traditionally people have consumed flaxseed as a vegetable in dishes or used it as a medicine in herbs.
However, Flaxseed is high in omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fibre. Flaxseed fiber is mainly present in the seed cover. Flaxseed fiber seems to make people feel less hungry before a meal, allowing them to consume less. This fibre, according to researchers, bonds to cholesterol in the intestine, and preventing it from being imbibe.
Health Benefits of Flaxseed and Uses of Flax Seeds – Linseed
Diabetes
Flaxseed can help people with type 2 diabetes maintain better blood sugar control. Flaxseed seems to be more effective in individuals who have poorly regulated type 2 diabetes.
High cholesterol
It helps lower cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol when consumed regularly. People that have high cholesterol tend to get the most from it. People with normal cholesterol levels can also benefit from it. Similarly, cholesterol levels do not seem to increase when flaxseed is consumed.
Flax Seed and Weight Loss – Obesity
Obesity is an issue. Flaxseed can aid in the reduction of body weight, BMI, and waist size in overweight or obese adults. It seems that taking at least 30 grams of flaxseed a day for at least 12 weeks is the most effective.
High blood pressure
The benefit of flax seeds is if your blood pressure is too high. Flaxseed can help people with high blood pressure by lowering their blood pressure slightly.
Mastalgia – Breast pain
Breast pain that happens at the onset of the menstrual period appears to be reduced by eating a flaxseed in dishes, smoothies, or chewing it raw.
Inflammation of the kidney
Basically, Flax seed also tends to make platelets, which aid in clotting, less sticky. Flaxseed’s effects on cholesterol and blood clotting can reduce the risk of atherosclerosis (arterial hardening).
Frequently Asked Questions about Flaxseed and the Answers
How do you eat flaxseed?
Flaxseed has a slight nutty taste that pairs well with a variety of foods. Ground flaxseed can be used in pancake, batters for pastries, as well as smoothies. Flaxseed oil may be drizzled over roasted vegetables, chicken, or used as a salad dressing.
What does flaxseed do to your body?
The effect on human body: Flax seed is high in fibre and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which are beneficial to your body. It’s well known for assisting digestion, but it may also help reduce cholesterol, increase insulin response, and guard against certain cancers.
What is flaxseed oil and its Benefits? How is it made?
Oil is extracted from flax to make flaxseed oil. To extract the solvent, flaxseed is ground and then squeezed using an oil press. While flaxseed oil contains a high concentration of ALA, some of the other nutrients present in ground flaxseed do not make it into the oil due to processing.
Is flaxseed bad for you? Or is it good for you?
There is no doubt that flaxseed is beneficial to your health. It’s packed full of vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet. Raw flaxseed, on the other hand, should be consumed in moderation.
Risk
Flaxseed oil should not be reheated. Stop microwaving to reheat the oil in already prepared dishes.
To avoid stomach issues, consume flax seed grounded and with lots of water.
