Flaxseed has been used for centuries for its health-promoting qualities. Today, flaxseed is known as a “superfood” because of the many beneficial properties it provides for human health.
The Benefits of Flaxseed
Flax seeds are loaded with essential nutrients that can promote your overall health. The health benefits from these seeds mainly come from the high fiber content, large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, and plant compounds known as lignans.
Adding flaxseed to your diet can support your health in a number of ways.
♦ Omega-3 support: The high omega-3 fatty acid content in flaxseeds can help reduce occasional oxidative stress in the body to support cognitive, immune, and whole-body health.
♦ Prostate health: Lignans are plant compounds that possess powerful antioxidant properties that can help support healthy prostate size and hormone levels.
♦ Digestive health: One tablespoon of flaxseed contains 12% of the daily recommended fiber men need. Flaxseed contains insoluble fiber that allows water to bind to stools to promote regular bowel movements and soluble fiber, which slows digestion to promote proper nutrient absorption.
Flaxseed for Heart Health
Poor diet has a significant impact on heart health, which means that with dietary changes, you can help promote optimal heart health. Flaxseed contains important compounds that work to support heart and circulatory health.
♦ Maintain healthy cholesterol: Flax seeds help promote healthy cholesterol levels, as the high-fiber content in the seeds binds to bile salts, which are then excreted. As these bile salts are replaced, cholesterol is pulled from the liver, which lowers overall blood levels.
♦ Support healthy blood pressure: Flaxseed helps to support healthy blood pressure levels and promote overall circulatory health.
♦ Maintain healthy blood sugar: Fiber slows digestion and the release of sugar into the blood, so the fiber content in flaxseed helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
♦ Support healthy weight management: The high fiber content helps slow digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness that can help curb cravings. In addition to this, the proteins in flaxseed influence hormones that trigger full sensations, so you will not be tempted to eat too much.
Flaxseed & Walnut Pesto Recipe
Ingredients
2 tablespoons walnuts, toasted
2 tablespoons flaxseeds
2 cups packed basil or Italian parsley leaves
1 to 2 garlic cloves
3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 to 4 tablespoons water
Directions
In a food processor, combine the walnuts and flaxseeds. Then, process until ground, which will be between 1 and 2 minutes. Add basil or parsley, garlic, parmesan, and 2 tablespoons of water. Puree the mixture until smooth and thick, adding more water, a little at a time, if necessary.
The Bottom Line
If you are looking for naturally-sourced nutritional goodness, then flaxseed needs to be on your radar. These tiny seeds are packed full of nutrients and health-supporting compounds that can promote your overall health and wellbeing.
Good things really do come in small packages when it comes to flax seeds.
