Now awareness of healthy life is increasing. Consumption of healthy foods is the main focus. Flaxseed is one of the healthiest foods with no small benefits. Flaxseed is rich in soluble and insoluble fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. These seeds also have antioxidant and estrogen benefits, thanks to the lignans in them.
About 7 grams or one spoonful of flaxseed contains 37 calories, 2 grams of dietary fiber, and 2 grams of unsaturated fatty acids.
Here are some of the benefits of flaxseed for health:
Lower cholesterol levels
Flaxseed can reduce LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) or often called bad cholesterol, as well as overall cholesterol level. Serving various flaxseed including bread and muffins has the same benefits. However, flaxseed does not appear to affect HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or good cholesterol.
Prevent cardiovascular disease
The intake of omega-3s in the body can help normalize the heartbeat. Recent studies also suspect omega-3 in flaxseed can help lower blood pressure, prevent hardening and plaque formation in arteries (clean blood vessels).
Reducing inflammation
Inflammation, which usually accompanies asthma and Parkinson's disease, is thought to be reduced by ALA compounds and lignans contained by flaxseed. Researchers revealed, flaxseed's ability is associated with preventing plaque formation in the arteries, which can also prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Slows down the development of breast cancer
The content of lignans in flaxseed resembles female hormones, estrogen. Because the shape is very similar, the body recognizes lignans as estrogen and makes natural estrogen-like it doesn't work. Researchers believe lignans can slow the development of several types of breast cancer that are affected by the body's estrogen levels.
Stabilize blood sugar levels
Flaxseed intake 3 times a day for 3 months in a study proves it can help stabilize blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Another study showed that regular intake of flaxseed powder for one month reduced blood sugar after fasting.
Tips for consuming Flaxseed
Make sure to consume crushed flaxseed, because these seeds can enter all parts of the body without being digested. Unprocessed raw flaxseed may contain toxins. Cook flaxseed along with other foods to destroy toxins. You can add flaxseed to biscuits, muffins or bread before baking.
Also, make sure not to overeat. About 50 grams of flaxseed or 5 tablespoons per day, is considered sufficient. Add one spoonful of flaxseed to the breakfast cereal, or to mayonnaise in a sandwich. Flaxseed will also add fiber and taste to yogurt as a snack or dessert.
Having a habit of consuming flaxseed or flaxseed regularly can get health benefits. However, if you have certain health conditions, consult a doctor or nutritionist before consuming flaxseed.
