Flax also known linseed is a member of the genus linum, in the family Linaceae. Flax is a food and fiber crop cultivated in cooler regions of the world.
Flax seeds have been consumed since 6000 years and may very well be called worlds first superfoods.
Flax seeds are the most affluent source of lignans and contain upto 7 times of the nearest contender sesame seeds.
LOWERS CHOLESTEROL
Being a good source of soluble fiber, flax seeds do a good job in lowering cholesterol. The soluble fiber trap fat and cholesterol in the digestive system and prevents it from getting absorbed.
Soluble fiber also absorbs bile and helps excreting the cholesterol content of the body efficiently, helping lower blood cholesterol levels.
WEIGHTLOSS
Flax seeds are an excellent weightloss diet. Fiber in flax seeds absorbs water and increase the bulk of the stomach food content, prompting stomach stretch receptors send signals to the brain of being full. This action improves satiety and helps you lower your calorie intake.
PROMOTE HEART HEALTH
Flax seeds are an affluent source of alpha linolenic acid (ALAs) which are plant based omega 3 fatty acids.
ALA are one of the two essential fatty acids that your body doesn’t make and you need to acquire them from food sources.
ALA prevent the the deposition of cholesterol in arteries and prevent the risk of atherosclerosis.
Studies suggest that regular consumption of ALA are associated with 14% decreased chances of stroke.
LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE
Flax seed consumption can be promising way to lower blood pressure.
Recent studies suggest the role of rich potassium diets in lowering bloodpressure as equal as low sodium ones.
REDUCE ANXIETY
Researches suggest the relationship of anxiety to low omega 3 fatty acid levels.
Flax seed oil, a vegetarian omega 3 source has shown to reduce anxiety.
Consumption of flax seeds(2-6) tbsps has been known to improve agoraphobia in 3 out of 4 individuals with its history.