Flax seeds also known as the linseed is popular in cure of different diseases from centuries. Its protective powers make it best in the prevention of different diseases, probably this was the reason Charles the great ordered his followers to use this seed as a preventive measure from different diseases. Meaning of this legendary seed ‘the most useful’ represents the true essence of flax seed.

Hidden powers of Flax seeds

Flax seeds are rich in Omega 3 fatty acid, protein, lignin, and healthy fibers which make it super healthy food, vitamins B1 and B6 and different minerals like of calcium and iron and many more. The perfect combination of these constituents along with other healthy constituents makes it perfect for the following diseases. These are just a few headlines of healing effects of Flax seeds.

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
2. Improve Blood cholesterol level.
3. Improve insulin sensitivity.
4. Prevent Breast cancer chances for up to 70%.
5. Heal the broken Arteries.
6. Also, prevent Ovarian Cancer.  

Which form of Flax Seeds is better to use?

This is one of the most common asked questions, in which form flax seeds should be used i.e. the ground state, in the whole seed form or the oil of flax seeds. All forms of flax seeds are equally useful and can be used according to the needs. If you are using flax in the grounded form but make sure it is freshly ground as it decomposes and oxidizes quickly. Grinding daily in the home is a tedious job and doing it daily is not going to be time savvy. Therefore, most of the people purchase pre-ground flax seeds from the market. This is a good idea only if you purchase nitrogen flushed ground flax seeds to avoid oxidation.

Similarly, the only form of flax seeds is used in many food applications. Same rule of pre-ground flax seeds will apply in the purchase of oily form of flax seeds i.e. it should be well nitrogen flushed to avoid oxidation and decomposition of flax seeds. Some rules must be kept in mind when you are using the oily form of flax seeds. First, don’t heat it after a limited temperature range, means it can’t be used in cooking purposes. Second, stay well hydrated when you use flax seeds to avoid significant binding which it can cause to a dehydrated person.

Nutrition facts of Flaxseeds:

The real hidden gem of flax seeds is its healthy nutrition, for example, it is rich in omega 3 rather than omega 6 which make it healthier to use. The top nutrition of flax seeds per teaspoon is given below.

Protein: 1.3 grams

Fiber: 1.9 grams

Fat: 3 grams

Omega 3 fatty acid: 1597 mg

Carbs: 2 grams

V B1: 8% of the RDI

V B6: 2 % of the RDI

Calcium: 2% of the RDI

Iron: 2% of the RDI

Magnesium: 7% of the RDI

Calories: 37

And so on.

Top Health Benefits of Flax Seeds:

1. Healthy Fats: Fats are an essential part of our foods but using the healthy is key to it. Fats make up to 42% of the total weight of flax seeds of which 73% of these fats consist of healthy fats (Polyunsaturated fatty acids) while unhealthy fats make up to only 27% which is not the case with other foods.Polyunsaturated fatty acids which contain omega-3 and omega-6 are critical for our body because it can’t be produced in our body and foods like flax seeds can help a lot in this regard. Higher content of omega-3 as compared to omega-6 makes it perfect to use and helpful in mitigating different chronic diseases.      
2. Rich in Minerals and Vitamins: Flax seeds is one of the best sources to avail minerals and vitamins our body needs critically. In 100 grams of flaxseed, 392 mg of magnesium and 1.2mg copper is present along with side vitamins like of V B1 and B6. Flax seeds also provide molybdenum to our body. All these vitamins and minerals are important in our body to perform different critical functions.
3. Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Flax seeds are very useful in reducing the bad cholesterol (LDL) level in our blood. Lignans present in flax seeds are the major source to reduce the bad cholesterol level which is responsible for different heart diseases. Phytosterols is another component which reduces the cholesterol level-up to 11%. Similarly, It is very beneficial in reducing high blood pressure.
4. Cancer: Lignans found in Flax seeds has proven impact on reducing the chances of various types of cancers including breast and lung cancer. Regulation of sex hormones in blood level due to Flax seeds also reduce the chances of these cancers.
5. Fight against Diabetes: Diabetes is one of the most prevalent major diseases in the world. Flax seeds have some very positive impact against this disease. A recent study has found that using a single teaspoon daily for one month can reduce the sugar level in blood as well as cholesterol level.

How much to take:

To get the above-mentioned benefits and to fight with the above-stated diseases, taking a proper dose of flax seeds is important. Normally, one doesn’t need to take too much amount to get the stated benefits as 1-2 teaspoons daily is normally recommended by health gurus.