Flax Facts – Naturally Healthy Properties of Flaxseed

Flaxseed is rich in fiber and heart-healthy it is also reduce the exposure of colon cells to cancer-causing chemicals. It can relieve the constipation or diarrhea of irritable bowel syndrome and helps to stabilize blood sugar in patients with diabetes. Magnesium also is found in flaxseeds and help to reduce the severity of asthma by keeping airways open and relaxed. It prevents the blood vessel spasms that lead to migraine attacks and generally promotes relaxation and helps to restore normal sleep patterns.

Flaxseeds are pleasant tasting and can taste good sprinkled on salads, cooked vegetables or cereals. Although the oil is very tasty too, it’s also very expensive. Here are some hints on how to use flaxseeds.

Whole seeds merely pass through the system so grind the seeds or chew them very slowly. It’s best to grind the seeds just before using them to preserved flavor and nutrition. Although there are two different colors of seeds, brown and yellow, there is no nutritional difference between them.

Combine flaxseed flour with wheat flour for all types of breads and even pancakes. Bread bakers are using flaxseed to promote their bread as lower carbohydrates.

Ready-made breads, muffins, breakfast bars and cereals can be found in many grocery stores.

The oil is prone to spoil quickly; it comes in dark colored bottles to extend its shelf life. It does need to be refrigerated and pay close attention to the expiration date. The more expensive “cold-pressed” oil is no better than any other kind.

Flaxseed oil can’t be used for frying.

Pregnant or breast feeding women should avoid eating a lot of flax.

Some might have an allergic reaction to flaxseeds.

Don’t use the supplements; eat the foods that contain flaxseed instead.

Further Reading
$Flax! Fabulous Flax: Nature\'s Best Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Lignan Fiber! (Health Learning Handbook)$