Most people are not aware of the benefits of flax seeds, some people might not even know what flax seeds are. They are shiney, nutty seeds that have an earthy aroma and fantastic health boosting properties that are really easy to add to your diet.
Flax seeds may be more commonly seen as a treatment for hair loss, but they have many other benefits, both inside and out of the body.
Here are just some of the benefits of flax seeds:
Healthy skin and hair
The ALA fats (Alpha-linolenic acid - the most common omega-3 fatty acid) are beneficial for the skin and hair by providing essential fats. Vitamin B can help reduce the dryness and flakiness of the skin. It is helpful in combating the signs of acne, eczema, and rosacea. Moreover, flax seeds are good for eye health as it can reduce dry eye syndrome.
If you want to have a healthier skin and hair then can try mixing two tbsp. of flax seeds to your morning smoothie recipe .
Weight loss
According to a study, walnuts and flax seeds help in weight reduction. The European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2013) reports, getting enough of omega-3s in your diet may help prevent obesity. Flax seeds contain healthy fats and fiber, that helps you in feeling sated for a longer period. As a result, your intake of calories is lower eventually leading to weight loss.
The ALA fats assists in reducing inflammation, an inflamed body will hold on to excess weight. So, decreasing inflammation is very important. You can add a couple of teaspoons of ground flax seeds to soups, smoothies or salads.
Try adding a few flax seeds to soups, smoothies or salads.Effects on cancer
Flax seeds have been shown to help in slowing down prostate, colon, and breast cancer growth. However more research is still required to fully confirm their effectiveness, the British Journal of Nutrition (2010) states.
Consuming flax seeds may decrease the risk of breast cancer. There are 3 lignans in flax seeds that provide protection against cancer. They can be converted by intestinal bacteria into enterolactone and enterodiol. They balance the hormones, and could be the reason flax seeds lessens the danger of breast cancer. They have also been linked with reducing the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer.
Lowers cholesterol
According to a research study1 , it was found that flax seeds can help lower the level of cholesterol. A study published in 2010 showing that patients with a moderately high cholesterol level taking 100mg of flaxseed lignan saw a reduction in blood cholesterol levels.
High in Antioxidants
One of the things that make flax seeds good for health is that it is enriched with antioxidants. Lignans are fiber related polyphenols that offer us many antioxidants benefit for cellular health and hormone balance.
Therefore, flax seeds are very beneficial for most people. By incorporating flax seeds into your lifestyle you can live a healthy life. Try these out and share your stories with us in the comments below.