Some call it one of the most powerful plant foods on the planet!! Flaxseed was cultivated in Babylon as early as 3000 BC. In the 8th century, King Charlemagne believed so strongly in the health benefits of flaxseed that he passed laws requiring his subjects to consume it. Now, thirteen centuries later, some experts say we have preliminary research to back up what Charlemagne suspected!!
One of the most extraordinary benefits of flax seeds is that they contain important level of mucilage gum content. Mucilage is a gel-forming fiber that is water soluble and has incredible benefits on the intestinal tract. The mucilage can keep food in the stomach from emptying too quickly into the small intestine which can increase nutrient absorption. Also, flax is extremely high in both soluble and insoluble fiber which can support colon detoxification, fat loss and reduce sugar cravings.
Weight Loss: Since flax is full of healthy fats and fiber, it will help you feel satisfied longer so you will eat fewer calories overall which may lead to weight loss. ALA fats may also help reduce inflammation. This is important for weight loss in that an inflamed body will tend to hold on to excess weight.
Lower Cholesterol: The soluble fiber content of flax seeds trap fat and cholesterol in the digestive system so that it unable to be absorbed. Soluble fiber also traps bile, which is made from cholesterol in the gallbladder.
The bile is then excreted through the digestive system, forcing the body to make more, using up excess cholesterol in the blood and lowering cholesterol overall.
Flaxseeds are Gluten-Free: Using flax is a fantastic way to naturally replace gluten-containing grains which are inflammatory where flax is anti-inflammatory. So, flaxseeds are great for those who have Celiac disease or have agluten-sensitivity. They may also be a suitable alternative to omega-3 fats in fish for people with a seafood allergy.
High in Antioxidants: Amongst its other incredible nutrition facts, flaxseeds are also packed with antioxidants. Lignans are unique fiber-related polyphenols that provide us with antioxidant benefits for anti-aging, hormone balance and cellular health.Polyphenols support the growth of probiotics in the gut and may also help eliminate yeast and candida in the body. Lignans are also known for their anti-viral and antibacterial properties, therefore consuming flax regularly may help reduce the number or severity of colds and flus.
Digestive: Maybe the biggest flaxseed benefits come from its ability to promote digestive health. The ALA in flax can help protect the lining of the digestive tract and maintain GI health. It has been shown to be beneficial for people suffering from Crohn’s disease or other digestive ailments, as it can help reduce gut inflammation. Flax is also very high in soluble and insoluble fiber which can also improve digestive health and is one of thehighest magnesium foods in the world.
FlaxSeeds for Cancer: Flaxseed benefits have been proven time and time again and even including fighting breast, prostate, ovarian and colon cancer.
Menopausal Symptoms: The Lignans in the flax have been shown to have benefits for menopausal women. It can be used as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy because Lignans do have estrogenic properties.
These properties may also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. It can even help menstruating women by helping maintain cycle regularity.
