Flax: A Tiny Seed with Big Promise

This superpower reputation stems from at least 3 things: ALA Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Lignans, and Fiber. Flaxseed has been cultivated and recognized for centuries for doing something special for your health, even before the science emerged to support a traditional belief. So why don’t more of us add a little shake of seed to our nutritional day?

There is a lot of good news coming out about Flax. However, many people are still not jumping on the flax bandwagon. Why? It can be as easy as shaking some seeds on your morning yogurt or cereal, yet people are reluctant to try this amazing seed.

Lets’ talk about some of the myth-understandings people have about eating Flax.

Not at all! You can simply add to smoothies, muffins or top off your salads, and never know it is in there. Flax may add a level of texture not normally found in your favorite foods, but you shouldn’t notice any difference in the taste. Your smoothie may be slightly chewy, however, that’s no different than when you add coconut- which is a delicious addition as well by the way! If anything, you might notice a little nutty flavor which in most cases adds a new layer of flavor you might find delightful.

This is simply not true. Most people find that because flax provides a low carb source of dietary fiber, they simply “go” on a regular basis. I think you’ll agree this isn’t a bad thing. Women should find this a positive benefit, since we are notorious for having problems with constipation.

Two tablespoons provide around 6 grams of fiber, which is about 15-25% of the amount you should eat daily. Flax seeds also contain mucilage, a gel forming fiber, which helps keep food from emptying too fast into the small intestine. This may increase nutrient absorption. It may also help to detox the colon which could lower the risk of colon cancer and help fight Crohn’s disease by reducing inflammation in the lining of the stomach. As long as you don’t overdo it- a tablespoon or two a day is all it takes – it should not cause stomach pain or loose bowels.

Again, this is an unfounded rumor because flax is sold in many different forms and does not have to be ground to enjoyed, athough it is easier to use that way. You can add it whole as a salad topping, for instance. Just sprinkle a few seeds on like you would when adding any other nut or seed like walnuts or sunflower seeds.

Or, it can be purchased already ground and used by the tablespoon to add to a smoothie, baked goods, and soups. If you simply get into the habit of adding some flax to your food, you will enjoy many benefits like lower cholesterol, weight loss, and healthier skin and hair!

Many doctors agree that the ALA fats in flax can help reduce dryness and flakiness of skin by providing the needed fats and B-vitamins. Flax provides a gluten free option for those wanting to get off inflammatory grains like wheat, important for those suffering from Celiac disease.

Try this: Add a tablespoon or two to your daily smoothie. you can replace one meal a day with a delicious home-made smoothie which includes antioxidants, or lignans, which can aid in balancing out hormones and provide anti-aging benefits. It’s a habit easy to learn and easier to keep, once you start reaping the benefits.

Nothing could be further from the truth! Simply transfer it from the bag it is purchased in to a gallon storage bag and toss it into the freezer to keep it fresh. That way, when you reach in to get your frozen fruit to add to the smoothie, take out your bag-o-flax and dip out a tablespoon or two of it’s golden goodness and toss it in with the other ingredients. Easy peasy!

It is a low cost way to protect yourself from inflammation and disease and could even reduce the symptoms of menopause! Just by keeping it in an air proof container or ziploc bag keeps it from going rancid and affecting the efficacy of the oils found in the flax.

By the way, flax can be purchased in the form of oil as well, making it even easier to add to a soup or smoothie.  Whole seeds can be stored in a cool dry place for months. Either way, there is no reason not to get some in your daily diet and start enjoying the many benefits it provides.

Fact is, flax provides many vitamins and minerals. Omega 3’s, abundant in flax, is embraced by those Blue Zone areas like Ikaria. You would be hard pressed to find a better oil or seed to add to your daily routine. The benefits far outweigh the negative ideas some folks seem to have about flax. My hope is this article will inspire you to give flax a chance and start enjoying better health!

Resources:

http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13197-013-1247-9

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