Benefits of Flaxseeds, a popular health food

Commonly known as alsi in Hindi, flaxseeds is fast becoming a popular health food. Flax seeds can be eaten with dal and vegetables, ground to make a roti or mixed with salads and soups.  Due to the characteristics of being healthy and easy to inculcate in lifestyle, flaxseeds have become an important part of people’s diets.

 Flaxseeds for weight loss

Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fats, lignans and fibre. Which is good for the gut as well as the brain

A diet rich in flaxseeds can also improve the lustre and glow of the skin. The omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-Linoleic acids) help smooth the skin, fight wrinkles, prevent acne, and heal unsightly blemishes.

 Flax seeds contain a group of nutrients called lignans, which have powerful antioxidant and oestrogen properties. They may help in preventing breast and prostate cancer, as well as other types of cancer and help with hormone imbalance, PCOS as well.

The serving amount of flaxseeds (ground)  is 7 g, which contains about 37 calories. Flax Seeds are a rich source of dietary fibre and antioxidants. Studies have shown the weight loss effect of flaxseed on the body. It is a source of dietary fibre and may help with constipation, thereby promoting digestive health.

• Digestion:Flaxseed can help with digestive issues like constipation, thanks to its high-fiber content

• Lowering cholesterol levels:Flaxseed’s been linked to lowering levels of low-density, which means it can help prevent other health issues such as heart disease and stroke.

• Manage some cancers:Flaxseed has possible anticancer compounds called lignans, which are polyphenols that may help manage certain types of cancer, including breast cancer.

• Weight management:This proposed benefit mostly stems from flaxseed’s fiber, which can help you feel full.

• Improving insulin sensitivity: Insulin resistanace or an inability to effectively use the hormone insulin to ferry glucose to cells, is the hallmark of type 2 diabetes, and some research suggests flaxseed oil may help with this problem.

It can help with blood sugar management in diabetic patients.

It may promote cholesterol management and improve heart health.

It may also reduce cancer risk.

They are a rich source of plant-based protein and may help with muscle and bone health.

 Flax seeds contain a group of nutrients called lignans, which have powerful antioxidant and oestrogen properties. They may help in preventing breast and prostate cancer, as well as other types of cancer and help with hormone imbalance, PCOS as well.

Since flax seeds are rich in fibre they help to promotes regular bowel movements and can improve the digestive health.

The high fibre content of flax seeds can help lower cholesterol and may play an important role in improving heart health.

Flax seeds may lower blood sugar due to their insoluble fibre content.

Flaxseeds – Risks involved

People must avoid the raw or unripe consumption of flax seeds as they may be toxic. Flaxseed or flax oil consumption may induce an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to flaxseed, therefore, one must be careful and aware about their bodies. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must avoid eating flaxseed as it may cause mild hormonal effects. Furthermore, consulting the doctor and dietician before adding flaxseeds to the diet is recommended.

Courtsey – Anshu A

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