Flaxseeds are well known for their nutrition value. They are a great source of vitamins, antioxidants, and so much more. These seeds make a great addition to smoothies and breakfast, adding texture and powerful health benefits. Let’s take a look at 10 reasons to eat flaxseeds.
1. Digestive health:
Flaxseeds are one of the best natural sources of dietary fiber on the planet. Dietary fiber is well known to help promote digestive health, make metabolism more efficient, and relieve constipation.
2. Good source of omega-3 fatty acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the complications of obesity and curb the upsurge in inflammation-causing chemicals. They also do an excellent job of combating ailments of aging, including a weak immune system, joint stiffness, and frail bones. Flaxseeds are one of the best sources for omega-3 fatty acids, which are also known for their antioxidant benefits. Omega-3s help reduce the effects of oxidative stress, which can eventually lead to chronic diseases.
3. Good source of lignans:
Flaxseeds are an excellent source of lignans. These phytochemicals are structured very much like estrogen. When lignans are consumed, they are converted to mammalian lignans, which are more easily absorbed in the body and act as antioxidants. Studies show that lignans may fight colon, breast and prostate cancers. Lignans also help regulate hormones in women, which helps relieve menopause symptoms.
4. Gluten-free:
Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity are becoming more and more prevalent nowadays. For those who have these conditions, flaxseed is a great alternative to traditional grains, because they are gluten-free.
5. Great source of dietary fiber:
Flaxseeds are a good source of both soluble and insoluble fibers. Adding flaxseeds to your diet can help with regular bowel movements, and conditions such as hemorrhoids and diverticulosis. Fiber also reduces cholesterol and increases satiety, making it a great weight loss food.
6. Lowers cholesterol:
Many of flaxseeds health benefits are due to their high amounts of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber traps fat and cholesterol, so the body does not absorb it.
7. May help fight cancer:
Flaxseeds may be a potent food for fighting cancer. Foods high in dietary fiber are believed to help prevent the development of colorectal cancer. Flaxseeds are also high in compounds called lignans, which have shown anti-cancer properties. A study from the journal Clinical Cancer Research showed that flaxseed has the ability to fight breast cancer tumors.
8. Regulates blood sugar:
Because flaxseeds are high in dietary fiber, they can help regulate blood sugar. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar by preventing blood sugar spikes.
9. Skin health:
Flaxseeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3’s help reduce inflammation, which is great for skin health. Most skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema are caused by chronic inflammation.
10. Weight loss:
Flaxseeds are extremely high in dietary fiber, with 45.9 g per cup, which is 183 percent of the recommended daily value. Dietary fiber helps with metabolism, and helps you feel fuller, so you eat less. A study published in the journal Nutrition & Metabolism explains how the dietary fiber in flaxseed may help with fat excretion in the body.
Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
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REFERENCES:
1. “Flaxseed Dietary Fibers Lower Cholesterol and Increase Fecal Fat Excretion, but Magnitude of Effect Depend on Food Type.” Nutrition & Metabolism. Nutrition & Metabolism, 2012. Web. 27 Aug. 2015.
2. “Nutrition Facts and Analysis for Seeds, Flaxseed.” Self Nutrition Data. Self Nutrition Data, n.d. Web. 27 Aug. 2015.
3. “10 Flax Seed Benefits and Nutrition Facts.” Dr Axe. Dr Axe, 01 Sept. 2014. Web. 27 Aug. 2015.
4. “Dietary Flaxseed Alters Tumor Biological Markers in Postmenopausal Breast Cancer.” Clinical Cancer Research. American Association for Cancer Research, 15 May 2015. Web. 27 Aug. 2015.
