As scientific research expands its area of interests, many food items are coming into the limelight. Flaxseeds are one such item. Considered as a ‘superfood’, they have been prized for their amazing health benefits since centuries. So much so that their scientific name, Linum Usitatissimum means ‘the most useful Linum.’ Check out some of the health benefits of flaxseeds:
- Nutritionally Rich
Flaxseeds are one of the earliest crops to be harvested. They are a powerhouse of nutrition. Abundant with protein, vitamins, minerals, good fatty acids like omega-3 and fiber, flaxseeds pack a punch.
- Fibre Rich
Yes, flaxseeds are rich in fiber, and we have heard that repeated often, but how rich? Well, if you ate a tablespoon of flaxseeds, you would have covered 12% of your daily requirement of fiber. They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Both these help in smoother bowel movement with the first slowing down digestion and the later retaining more water in the stool, thus preventing constipation. Flaxseeds regulate the sugar levels in blood and also bring down cholesterol levels. They are a boon for those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.
- Packed With Omega-3 Fats
Fish are one of the most abundant sources of omega-3 fatty acids. For vegetarians, it is flaxseeds that rule the roost. This fatty acid present in heaps in flaxseeds ensures that cholesterol doesn’t get deposited. It also reduces arterial inflammation and retards tumor growth. People who eat flaxseeds regularly reduce their risks of developing heart problems.
- Rich in Lignans
Flaxseeds have an abundance of lignans, plant compounds that are believed to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Flaxseeds are the richest source of these compounds in the plant world. These studies have found most encouraging results for breast cancer in women post their menopausal age. For men, flaxseeds are beating prostate cancer according to a small study.
- Lower Blood Pressure
Various studies all over the world claim that flaxseeds lower blood pressure levels within six months. It is said if a person eats flaxseeds and takes medication to lower blood pressure, the combined effect is profound. This also led to a reduction in risks of getting a stroke or heart problems.
- Protein Rich
Flaxseeds are one of the richest sources of proteins in the plant kingdom. If you intend to go vegetarian, flaxseeds will not only stave off hunger but also not let you miss your protein intake. Apart from this, flaxseeds improve immunity; prevent tumor growths and boast of anti-fungal properties.
- Improve Blood Sugar Levels
Research supports that flaxseeds help in normalizing blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of heart disease considerably. This is because these seeds have a decent amount of insoluble fiber that helps in slowing down the release of sugar in the blood.
- Improve Body Constitution
Flaxseeds are rich in fiber and therefore help tremendously in weight loss and weight control thus improving body constitution. They enhance satiety levels and stave off hunger if had as a snack. They make you leaner and stronger.
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