Flax seeds have been around humans since the beginning of civilization. Evidence states that Egyptians would carry flaxseeds in their medicinal pouches.
It has been mentioned in Ayurveda and Hippocrates mentioned flaxseeds as an excellent cure for digestive troubles in his writings.
Modern science has proved its benefits and no wonder why more and more people are recognizing its benefits.
Flaxseeds are very nutrient-dense food. Just one tablespoon provides a good amount of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, in addition to vitamins and minerals.
These nutrients in flaxseed can help with cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, asthma, inflammation, and weight loss.
Flaxseed contains a special type of phytochemical called “lignans” which have been proven to be helpful in cancer prevention, skin sensitivity, and hair fall.
Today more and more people want to take the benefits of flaxseeds but most of them don’t know the correct method to take it.
Here are some points you should keep in mind to reap the full benefits of flaxseed.
1. It is recommended that you should consume ground flaxseed instead of whole flaxseed because ground flaxseed is easier to digest and it improves the absorption of nutrients.
The whole flaxseed has a hard nondigestible covering that can go undigested through your intestine and you will miss all the benefits of flaxseed.
2. It is preferable to buy organic flaxseeds and ground them at home in the coffee grinder or food processor. You should make small batches of ground flaxseeds and keep in an airtight jar to preserve its goodness.
3. If you are buying ground flaxseeds then you should transfer it to the airtight jar once you open the packet.
4. Like other sources of fiber, flaxseed should be taken with plenty of water or other fluids.
5. Flaxseed should not be taken at the same time with other oral medications.
6. During pregnancy, women are advised not to consume it, because the phytoestrogens it contains could have an adverse effect.
7. Consuming Flaxseed is not suitable while breastfeeding.
8. There is also a chance that the phytoestrogens in flaxseed may interfere with the action of birth control pills or hormone therapy. So avoid it if you are on these types of medications.
9. People with bowel obstruction should not take it because it can worsen the symptoms.
