Flaxseed is an easy way to bring some amazing benefits to your health! It can get overlooked because its ” one more thing” to think about in trying to become healthier. It’s easier than you think to get your flax in!
Let’s talk about this superfood and how just starting with a scoop a day will put you on the road to a healthier you!
Flaxseed is easy to find now at most grocery stores. Target even carries it! It’s inexpensive for a good size bag, so you get a lot for your money. I recommend that you buy organic if possible.
Keeping it in the fridge will give it an extended shelf life and will keep it fresh for a long time.
Why is flaxseed so good for you?
It contains some of the richest sources of plant based Omega 3’s. Not the EPA/DHA Omega’s in fish but a superstar called ALA. (Alpha-Linolenic acid). This is powerful for cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation in the body, which is a precursor to disease. Anytime we can reduce inflammation it’s a good thing!
Flaxseed contains “lignans,” which are powerful antioxidants. Anytime you are ingesting antioxidants you are getting the benefits of reducing free radical damage, anti-aging, and cellular regeneration. Lignans are considered natural phytoestrogens that work similar to the hormone estrogen. Women can be too low or too high in their estrogen levels, which can cause numerous health issues. Flaxseed can gently bring you back to a hormonal balance.
What are the amazing benefits you can expect?
- Skin and hair will become healthier. As we age our hair and skin can become dry and dull. The ALA’s bring strength and shine back to the hair and a glow back to the skin.
- Flaxseed is a great source of soluble and insoluble fiber. Which means better gut health, better digestion and we can say goodbye to constipation!
- Keeps you feeling fuller longer, which helps with weight control.
- Reduces dry eye syndrome by natural lubrication.
- Flaxseed oil can hydrate your skin internally, which is the best kind of hydration.
- Naturally reduces high cholesterol levels.
How do you start?
- Bake with it! Add to muffins, bread, soups, oatmeal etc.
- Use a flax egg instead of a real egg in baking. (I TBL ground flaxseed + 3 TBL water). Mix in a cup and let sit for a couple of minutes to thicken.
- Smoothies. So easy to add in! 1 TBL is a great start! It will thicken your smoothie slightly, so drink up!
- Add to granolas.
Ground or whole and how much daily?
Ground. Whole flaxseed will pass right through your system and you miss out on all the benefits. Some people like to buy whole and grind them in a grinder. I take the easy route and buy a bag of ground flaxseed and I’m ready to start scooping!
If this is something new start with 1 scoop a day (1 TBL). You will reap the amazing benefits! You can increase up to 2 TBL if you need to.
Hope this was a help to you and you start incorporating flaxseed into your daily routine! You will be on your way to optimal health with every scoop!
Until next time,
~pat
