Flax seed benefits are only just being discovered by the average dieter. Flax has such a huge array of benefits to the body – including minerals, amino acids, fatty acids and fiber. They are a complete protein source, as they include all of the ten essential fatty acids.
The big news about flax seed benefits is that this food could become the most important nutrition supplement next to your daily vitamin pill. Flax has so many health benefits; it’s hard to list them all at once without being overwhelmed. However, just keep in mind the benefits of the Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids that are present in flax seed. These fatty acids help in the fight against heart and kidney diseases, along with arthritis, hypertension and even psoriasis.
So how do you consume flax seed? Here’s an easy recipe you can substitute for eggs in your cakes or other baked goods:
Three tablespoons flax seed (get the yellow kind) – grind in blender until it is a powder
Add one cup water and blend until thick. Use this mixture to replace two large eggs in your baked goods.
Flax seed benefits go on and on, including help with immunity and really help to control the inflammatory response of the body resulting from arthritis and strenuous exercise. Give this new miracle grain a try – you’ll be amazed at all the benefits from such a simple food.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with health. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed to be any sort of medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other medical specialist.
garymoller.com Gary Moller shows how to use flax seed oil to help your skin recover from the ravages of sunburn and aging. For more: garymoller.com and to purchase to deliver worldwide: www.myotec.co.z
You might disagree but hear me out on this, flax seed oil benefits are sufficient for you, if you are a pure vegetarian or you just cannot eat fish and its products; otherwise fish oil is the source you should go in for. Fault is not yours; this is because of the wrong picture that many flax seed oil manufacturers have portrayed.
In this article, we will explore few facts about omega-3 fatty acids and then based on them you can take a wise decision which source suits you the best to overcome the deficiency of omega3.
There are three types of essential omega 3 fats – alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA and EPA are the two more readily absorbed fats by our body. Studies have proved that most of the benefits of omega-3 fats are related to DHA.
As far as ALA is concerned body can convert it to DHA and EPA. But because most of the ALA that you consume is used in burning energy, only small portion is left for the conversion. Also, this conversion is a very complex and inefficient process.
This means as if you rely only on ALA sources, you can remain deficient in very powerful DHA omega3 fat. Or to put in other words, you will have to eat tons of ALA sources to get the optimal DHA levels in your blood stream.
You will be surprised to know that flax seed contains only ALA omega3 fats and hence flax seed oil benefits are less as compared to fish oil that contains both DHA and EPA. This is the reason; I discouraged you in selecting flax seed as the source to compensate the deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids.
My motto in life why spend extra dollar to buy large quantities of flax seed when you can gain same (actually more) benefits through a less expensive but high DHA fish oil supplement.
In conclusion, flax seed oil benefits are nowhere near the advantages of fish oil supplements. To reap the maximum benefits of omega-3 fats you should go in for a source that has high DHA content. You should take at least 500 mg of DHA daily. This leaves you with two choices 2 fish oil pills (having 250 mg of DHA) or huge quantity of flax seed oil.
If you need my recommendation for an effective high DHA supplement that under goes Molecular distillation process to filter out all the harmful and unwanted toxins, visit my website Omega 3 Brief. Based on personal experience, I can assure you that all the flax seed oil benefits and many more can be acquired through the regular dosage of this supplement.
Chuck Blake is an active researcher and consumer of fish oil products.Visit his website http://omega3brief.com today to learn more about the powerful benefits of omega-3 fish oils.
Organic flax seed comes in two popular varieties: Seeds and ground. The whole seeds tend to last longer than the ground seeds, which are also called flax seed meal. However, no organic value is lost when opting for ground flax seed meal. There are numerous different benefits that one can easily experience for their health and wellbeing when taking organic flax seed.
One of the most popular methods of taking this organic ingredient is in supplements, or in capsule form. It tends to be relatively affordable and is a low in fat and high fiber supplement that can offer many things for those who take it. Some people take flax seed to aid in their weight loss and to lower cholesterol or maintain healthy levels. Other people use it for improved skin and to combat common skin conditions.
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of taking organic flax seed.
Benefits of Organic Flax Seed: • Offers nourishing and rejuvenating properties for the skin • Contains omega 3 fatty acids, and omega 6 fatty acids, which also promote healthy and sheen skin. • It’s been shown to aid in the healing of abrasions, lesions and with reducing scarring, and also offers anti-inflammatory properties • Flax seed has been shown to be beneficial in treating some common skin conditions including: eczema, psoriasis and acne • It combats cholesterol levels and helps to lower them as well • It is widely available in capsule and in powder, seed and ground meal form, and tends to be very affordable, too
Organic ingredients like flax seed can be used for improving hair, nail and skin health, tonality, youthfulness, suppleness and texture. Learn about this and other beneficial beauty tips by harnessing the power of organic supplements for beauty. Learn more about Folligenix today, a revolutionary new beauty supplement created by celebrity Soho hair stylist and salon owner, Mario Diab.
Yesterday flax – also known as linseed- was the health foodie’s baby; nowadays chia rose to fame. What’s going on? Are chia seeds health benefits really so much better?
It’s not exactly a “my superfood is better than yours” conflict. There are some genuine reasons you should consider switching out flax for chia. Read these five reasons to educate yourself on why chia is believed to be a wiser selection than flax…and then make an informed decision on your own.
1. Estrogen Dominance: A Scary Risk to Take
What on earth is estrogen dominance? In simple English, it’s what appears when one’s body’s estrogen levels go too high. The effects of estrogen dominance are not comfortable:
Young girls get to puberty prematurely, which can be dangerous both physically and emotionally.
Grown women encounter uncomfortable periods and difficult menopauses.
Ever heard the expression “man breasts?” It’s no laughing matter – men can become estrogen dominant just like women, and develop breasts.
Then, what’s the link between estrogen dominance and flax? Well, flaxseed is a phytoestrogen, or plant-based estrogen. Certain scientific studies has illustrated that phytoestrogens pose as the natural estrogens in our bodies, which raises our estrogen levels.
The accuracy of this claim has yet to be proved conclusively, but, if you have any fear at all that you could be estrogen dominant, you might want to keep away from flaxseed. The alternative? Chia seeds are not estrogenic like flax. Switching to chia instead of flax can’t hurt – and it may help you avoid unnecessary health problems.
2. A Whole Lot More Omega-3s
What are omega-3 fatty acids? Omega-3 fatty acids are poly-unsaturated fatty acids. In order to preserve fine health, your diet must be loaded in omega-3 fatty acids. Scientific research demonstrates that omega-3 fatty acids may:
safeguard against the build up of a protein involved with Alzheimer’s disease
help lower triglycerides
assist to lower high blood pressure
multiply “good” cholesterol
These are only a few of the benefits. Lots of research is being done on omega-3 fatty acids, and we’re constantly discovering new ways to integrate it into our meal plans.
So, how does chia come into the picture? Well, flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids – but chia is even richer.
3. Chia Stays Fresh For Five Years
Have you ever happened upon rancid flax? Nasty! Chia seeds remain stable for much longer than flaxseed. The seeds can conveniently be stockpiled for up to 5 years without wasting flavor or nutritional value.
Why does chia have such an extensive shelf life? Chia seeds holds an incredible amount of antioxidants. The antioxidants in chia stop it from going rancid like flaxseed. Consider this if you decide to purchase your health foods in bulk to save money.
4. Even More Fiber Than Flax
What’s so great about fiber? Well, it’s a vital part of your eating habits. The recommended amount is about 18 grams per day.
Fiber is only found in plant foods, and if your diet is heavy on fish or meat it might be problematic to get the recommended total amount of fiber. That’s why grains with lots of fiber, like flax and chia, are so beneficial. You can get quite a lot of fiber without having to consume huge volumes.
So, which do you suppose has more fiber – flax seeds or chia seeds? You know it – chia has 25 percent more fiber than flaxseed!
5. Hypothyroidism? Not With Chia
Remember phytoestrogens? Additionally, after perhaps giving rise to estrogen dominance, they are feared to influence hypothyroidism. If you have a history of thyroid imbalance, you should consider skipping the flax.
As you recall, chia is not estrogenic, so you can comfortably exchange flax with chia in your food plan. This means you will enjoy all the benefits with none of the risks.
Having any type of digestive tract problem is very uncomfortable and painful for any person. Some people have the sad affliction of suffering with chronic digestive tract problems that are difficult to control and difficult to live with. One problem that is not often talked about but is a very real problem is constipation. This problem may not seem like a big deal to some one who has never had to deal with it but it is a very uncomfortable and harmful situation for a person to deal with. Untreated constipation can result in bowel impaction and can require surgical intervention when it becomes severe. Other problems that can occur with constipation are things such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures or prolapse.
It is important for anyone who suffers with this problem to find adequate and efficient ways of relief that will prevent complications and pain from occurring. Doctors usually recommend that people with constipation need to increase fluid intake, increase physical activity and most importantly increase fiber intake. A very beneficial way to increase fiber in the diet is for a person to have an intake of flax seed. Flax seed, otherwise known as linseed, is a very beneficial supplement in the diet that will not only help the digestive tract to function well but will provide other benefits to the human body.
How Flax Seed Works To Relieve Constipation
Flax seed is a very compact fiber that is very effective. The term fiber when used in terms of digestion suggests that the substance is not digested or broken down as it moves through the intestinal tract. Because it is not broken down the flax seed or other fibers make the stool bulkier and easier for the body to move by the action of peristalsis. With the bulky stool and an adequate fluid intake the person is able to eliminate wastes through the bowels more efficiently and constipation is prevented. Without adequate fiber intake of such items as flax seed the stool is smaller and clumpy making more difficult to move through the intestines.
Why Flax Seed Is Best
There are many types of fiber a person can use to aide in the efforts to relieve constipation but flax seed has proven itself to be one of the best fibers for the human diet that has been found. The reason this is so is because flax seed will not only prevent and treat the constipation but it has many other health benefits as well. Flax seed is rich in oil that contains Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been proven to help in several areas of body functioning. One important discovery of Omega-3 fatty acids is that by having an adequate intake of it in a diet a person will have reduce cholesterol and less incidence of heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been linked with a reduction of many types of cancer. Flax seed may also help in the treatment of diabetes by stabilizing the blood sugar levels. The studies in this area are not complete but it is surely something well worth investigating. A person who takes flax seed for constipation will also have these other benefits making flax the best fiber choice.
Who Should Use Flax Seed
Of course, any person who is thinking of adding a supplement to their diet should consult their physician. Flax seed should not be contraindicated for the average person but some people may find that they do not tolerate the fiber well. Most people, even those without chronic constipation, will find that they have great results in taking the flax seed not only functioning of the heart and other organs of the body. It is well worth trying as the benefits are only just beginning to surface in the scientific world.
An Interpreter at the 1710′s German Palatinate Farm at the Frontier Culture Museum demonstrates how to obtain flax fibers from the flax plant. Video Rating: 5 / 5
The benefits of flax seeds are numerous and include constipation relief, clearing up acne, smooth skin, they assist in building muscle and burning fat, they’re good for heart health and they might even help with depression and arthritis.
Flax seeds are small seeds that at first glance look like the sesame seeds used on hamburger buns. They are very inexpensive and you can chew them up in their natural form. Flax seeds are high in Omega 3 oils. Omega 3 is not something the body produces on its own.
You can find flax seeds at your health food store or places that sell natural foods in bulk. Flax seed can be chewed in its seed form or you can buy vitamin supplements of flax seed oil in pill form. The seed form is much cheaper in price and you can buy a pound for just a few dollars.
Drink plenty of water when using ground up seeds or chewing the seeds. Be sure to keep the flax seeds refrigerated. And never heat flax seeds as that may cause a chemical breakdown in the seeds and could be even carcinogenic as a by-product.
When it comes to constipation, the flax seed has been proven to be very effective. Flax seeds are astringent and have a laxative action. They are good for mild to moderate symptoms of constipation. It’s not as harsh on the system as some of the fiber alternatives, yet it does act quickly. You can even grind the seeds in a coffee grinder to make into a powder. You can eat the powder or add it to a nondairy smoothie, a juice, or on cereal. It’s even tasty when sprinkled onto salad.
Up to 3 tablespoons twice a day should get the results you’re looking for. But do be careful. Consuming an large amount of flax seeds can contribute to back up in your colon. Flax seeds also have small traces of prussic acid, which in excessive amounts is toxic. But it would take a lot of flax seeds to reach a toxic level.
Since our bodies do not produce their own Omega 3, so we need to get it from our diet. Flax seed oil capsules are high in Omega 3 (although fish oil capsules have even higher concentrations of Omega 3). Omega 3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid which, as it passes through the digestive tract in the human body, it breaks down existing cholesterol and deposits a thin barrier to prevent its reformation.
Omega 3 works to fight against the main cholesterol deposits that cause clotting of the blood. These clots then block blood vessels causing heart attacks or strokes if they reach the brain. The American Heart Association recommends a daily intake of 1000 mg. of Omega 3 for measurable benefits in heart health.
Flax seeds can also help to clear acne. It’s fatty acids that help control the production of excess androgens (hormones that peak during the teen-age years). The androgens cause excess sebum oil to clog hair follicles and can contribute to creating more acne. Because of this androgen control, flax seeds may also help with building muscle and burning fat and reducing water bloating (and possibly hair loss) that is sometimes caused through excess androgens.
Omega-3 may also be a good nutrient for the brain and concentration. Omega-3 fats seem to work by making the thin fatty membranes that surround the nerve cells in the brain more flexible. This allows more neurotransmitters to be successfully transmitted between nerve cells, increasing our ability to think faster and concentrate better. Omega-3 has also been shown to have a number of other effects that control harmful inflammation (arthritis) and even possibly prevent depression.
With flax seeds being so inexpensive, it’s worth giving them a try. Your local health food store should have them or be able to tell you where to find flax seeds.
Jessia Deets writes articles of interest in various areas. You can find out lots of information about flax seeds and see our articles at http://www.flaxseedinfo.com
Flax seed oil has a history rich with treatments and is believed to help in the prevention of certain illnesses. Flax seed oil is sold as a liquid, but must remain refrigerated at all times. Recent research studies have indicated that flaxseed oil may help to reduce high blood pressure, lessen high cholesterol and is currently being evaluated for its potential to prevent cancer.
The key to Flax seed oil and its healthy benefits is that of essential fatty acids, which are especially valuable since the body needs them in order to function properly. The body, however, is unable to manufacture essential fatty acids on it’s own and receives benefits from products containing such ingredients. One such benefit is derived from one of the essential fatty acids found in flax seed oil, which is believed to reduce the risk of heart disease and various other ailments.
Flax seed oil also provides a rich source of lignans, which are believed to possibly prevent certain types of cancer and help to fight against certain infections, including bacterial, viral, etc. Among its specific benefits, flax seed oil is thought to aid in the reduction of high cholesterol, control high blood pressure and protect against heart disease. Certain studies have shown that lowering cholesterol may also reduce the risk of heart disease.
Flax seed oil is believed to aid in the inflammation resulting from gout, which often presents itself with sudden and severe joint pain or swelling. By reducing the discomfort of these symptoms, the individual may find relief from the sudden onset of gout. Because flax seed oil is a fiber product, it is often associated with relieving constipation and may even ease an upset stomach.
With its many believed benefits on the inside, flax seed oil is thought to promote many cosmetic improvements as well. In addition to the treatment of acne, eczema and sunburns, flax seed oil is also believed to promote healthy hair and nails. The lignans found in flax seed oil are also thought to protect against various aging effects and a variety of other ailments. Flax seed oil is also believed to help soften dry skin when applied externally to the affected area, but may also prove beneficial for aching or injured skin.
While flax seed is believed to be safe in general, there are potential risks that consumers should consider. As is the case with many ingredients and treatment products, there have been serious allergic reactions that have been reported by flax seed users. In addition, individuals who are already taking any type of medication must consult a physician before using flax seed or flax seed oil, which may interfere with the effects of other medicine. There are certain individuals who should consider avoiding flax seed and flax seed oil altogether, including women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. In addition, flax seed may be dangerous for anyone with a history of certain types of cancer or diabetes and other specific ailments.
Vincent Abrugar is the webmaster of http://www.flaxinfo.com a website about flax seed and flax seed oil information.
Omega 3 is a fatty acid found in flax seed, fish oil and some other types of healthy oils. Nutritional experts have long been talking about the various benefits of flax seed and Omega 3. The essential fatty acid Omega 3 found in flax seed has the ability to promote good heart health, reduce the occurrences of some common mental ailments and reduce pain and inflammations in individuals suffering from arthritis. This article will review these benefits and enlighten the reader as to why including flax seed in your diet may be critical for a healthy lifestyle.
Heart Health
The Omega 3 found in flax seed has been studied by nutritionists and found to promote heart health. Omega 3 lowers the bad cholesterol in the body while positively effecting, if not necessarily increasing, the levels of good cholesterol. Flax seed has also been shown to lower blood pressure in individual who consume it and may prevent plaque from building along the artery walls. Along with the physical health that is boosted by the consumption of flax seed and Omega 3, some exciting mental health benefits also exist.
Mental Health
Since the foods that contain Omega 3 are not common in the diets of people today, a deficiency of this vital fatty acid is common. Some experts believe that it is this deficiency that has cause the rise in mental disorders including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. Often the additional of flax seed with Omega 3 fatty acids to the diet of mental disturbed patients can ease their symptoms and alleviate their suffering. Not only does Omega 3 from flax seed lessen the instances of mental disorders but it can also increase the mood, mental acuity and visual sharpness of those who include it in their daily diets. People who eat flax seed with Omega 3 have also reported fewer instances of pain and inflammation.
Reduced Pain and Inflammation
Arthritis sufferers can be limited in what activities they can take part in. Flax seed and essential Omega 3 helps ease the pain and swelling in the joints that is associated with osteoarthritis. Studies have also shown that omega 3 from flax seed can slow the breakdown of cartilage that causes arthritis to be so painful and disabling. Since omega 3 promotes cell growth, it is possible that eating flax seed on a daily basis can alleviate many common aches and pains, such as eyestrain, headaches, lower back and leg pain. But how easy is it to add flax seed to your daily eating menu?
Incorporating Flax Seed And Omega 3 Into Your Diet
Flax seeds have a delightful nutty-type flavor that goes well with any food that you would be likely to add nuts to. First it is important to mention that flax seeds should be grinded before use to enable easier digestion and richer flavor. Once they are properly processed, sprinkle them over salads or cereals to add a crunch. This also works well with yogurt. For a healthy burst of nutty flavor, add flax seeds to your muffins instead of walnuts. You could also consider sprinkling a handful of omega 3 rich flax seeds over your breakfast pancakes
Which is a better source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids- Roasted Flax Seed or Fish Oils?
There has been a steady competition between fish oils and roasted flax seeds regarding their benefits, as both are rich in Omega 3.
While fish oils are considered to be the richest sources of Omega 3 fatty acids, roasted flax seeds are not far behind; however, which of the two is best is still a matter of debate.
Roasted Flax Seed and Flax Seed Oil
The debate over the benefits of roasted flax seed over fish oil and vice versa seems to be never ending. While some proponents sing praises about flax seed oil, some others preach the benefits of fish oils. The Omega-3 content of both the ingredients is undeniable, but the conflict arises when you want to choose the best.
It has been found that fish oils contain high quality Omega -3, but flax seed oil contains a typical variety of Omega-3 called ALA. An individual needs ALA (alpha linolenic acid) anyway and our body can actually produce the other entire essential Omega-3s it requires from ALA itself.
If you can, choose the organic flax seed variety for retaining the nutritive properties of these seeds that will contribute to your health. In fact, if you are a vegetarian, then organic flax seeds are the best source of Omega-3 fatty acids for you.
The Comparison
As you compare the two types of oils side by side, you are likely to find that both these oils are excellent sources of Omega 3 fatty acids. While flax seed oil is a plant-based source of Omega-3 fatty acid and contains ALA, fish oil contains all the essentials of Omega 3, including EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and (DHA) Docosahexaenoic acid.
When you are consuming flax seed oil, your body will convert the ALA into DHA and EPA enzymatically. However, some researchers believe that there is indeed a big difference as to how much ALA is converted into DHA and EPA, and that makes a difference. However, flax seed nutrition is retained in fish oils too.
The Final Outcome
According to research and scientists, the answer is quite clear:
Fish oils offer both DHA and EPA, while roasted flax seeds provide ALA, which is converted into EPA after consumption
Similarly, only 6 to 8% of ALA is converted into EPA
Women can convert ALA to DHA more effectively than men
If you are a vegetarian, you will have no choice but to opt for roasted flax seeds for your daily dose of Omega-3s. Choose roasted flax seeds from a company like Aurora Natural that has the reputation of making quality oils. You can also consume ground roasted flax seeds to get the same benefits.
Roasted flax seed manufactured by Aurora Natural is the highest quality all natural roasted flax seed offering many health benefits to learn more visit http://www.dryroastedflaxseed.com.
Aurora Products is an all natural and organic dried fruits, nuts and granola distributor in Stratford CT their website: http://www.auroranatural.com .
The flax seeds commonly known as linseeds around the Planet have many benefits. These seeds are also used in many applications today. The flax seeds are used as ingredients in paints, fiber and cattle feed. It is known that the flax seed has the ability to increase the drying property of the paints. Researches indicate that these flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Hence the flax seeds are readily consumed by people today. The health benefits that can be obtained by consuming the flax seed are unlimited. Just keep reading on the article to know the health benefits that you can get by consuming the flax seeds.
The rich Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
People around the Planet have a misconception that all kinds of flax seeds have the same nutritional value. The true fact is that the amount of Omega-3 fatty acids available in the flax seed varies. You will be well aware of the fact that there are 2 common types of linseeds (say) yellow and brown flax seeds. Researched indicate that these 2 types of flaxseeds have very different oil profiles. Ie. The Yellow flax seeds have only traces of Omega-3 fatty acids whereas; the brown flax seed is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acid. Hence the brown flax seeds have greater health benefits than the yellow ones. Hence hundred grams of brown flax seeds can supply about 450 kilo-calories. The brown flax seeds are also rich in the much needed essential nutrients like fiber and proteins.
Source of Lignan with many medical benefits
The flax seeds are also rich sources of the chemical component called Lignan. The Lignans are same as the estrogens and have an anti-oxidizing property. Various studies and tests where conducted regarding the Lignans and the test results indicate that they have a positive effect in the heart’s working process. The Lignans are also fount to process anti-cancer properties and hence can be use as a remedy for certain types of cancers. Lab tests by injecting the Lignan extract to mice indicated that it retarded the growth of certain kinds of tumors. This chemical component with many medical benefits is present only in some natural foods like flax seeds and Sesame seed. However, flax seeds contain the highest quantity of Lignan (300,000 µg/ 100 g).
Flax seeds are available in almost all the food stores today. The flax seeds can be consumed as it is and should not be heated or cooked. Heating the flax seeds will cause a chemical breakdown and will destroy the medical properties. It is always good to drink plenty of fresh water while consuming the Flax seeds. Doing so will enhance the medical properties of these seeds.
Bottom line
With all these benefits, the flax seeds are really miraculous nutritional supplements available in this Planet. To the added advantage, the flax seeds are really inexpensive and are readily available in all the food stores.
About the Author:
The Author of this article is a health expert. He knows the importance of consuming flax seeds for a healthy life. He also knows the fact that all the flax seeds out there are not the same. With his vast knowledge about the flax seed, he has written many articles regarding the health benefits of good flax seeds.
