Feeling the Flax: Adding Flaxseed to Your Diet
For the past decade it’s been almost impossible to avoid hearing about flaxseed. You’ve probably seen it mixed in with good-quality granola, as a topping for fruit or added into a smoothie. So what’s the deal with flaxseed? How can something so tiny be so jam-packed with nutrients? Flaxseed, which has been used for its health purposes since the beginning of time, is a great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, just one tablespoon provides protein, lignans and is a rich source of vitamins and minerals.
Health Benefits
Lingans are plant compounds that are rich in antioxidants and estrogen; both are helpful for lowering your risk of cancer. Some studies show that regularly including flaxseed in your diet can help lower your risk of developing colon, breast or prostate cancer. Another perk, flaxseed has been known to help lower cholesterol, blood pressure and regulate blood sugar levels.
Give it a Try!
Are you ready to start incorporating flax into your diet? Whole seeds have a hard time being digested by the body, so try grinding a small amount with a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle and then start eating! Flaxseed can be used as a thickener for soups and stews, as a topping on fruit or acai bowls, and easily added into cookie and granola recipes.
