Flaxseed is one of the most popular types of seeds, and it’s easy to see why. Flaxseed is rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which are plant compounds that may help reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer.
Flaxseed has been used for thousands of years because it’s rich in nutrients, including protein, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also a good source of magnesium, which can help lower blood pressure.
Nowadays flaxseed is used as an ingredient in many foods and beverages, from yogurt to breads to muffins. You can also buy flax oil capsules at the health food store or online.
Health Benefits
- Flax Seed Protects Against Cancer
Flax seeds contain high levels of lignans which are compounds that act as antioxidants and help fight free radicals that can cause cancer. Studies have shown that flax seeds can lower the risk of prostate cancer by up to 35 percent. Flax seed also contains phytosterols which reduce inflammation in the body and can lower cholesterol levels. This makes them especially beneficial for people with heart disease or diabetes as well as those who are at risk for developing these conditions.
- Flax Seed Boosts Your Immune System
The fiber content in flax seed helps keep your digestive system healthy while also acting as a prebiotic which boosts your immune system function. The oils found in flax seeds are converted into fatty acids by bacteria in your gut which help fight infections such as colds, flu and sinus problems by increasing mucous production in your nose and throat area.
But before you go overboard with flaxseed products, there are also some surprising side effects that you should know about such as diarrhea and constipation. The soluble fiber in flaxseed can cause stomach cramping, diarrhea or constipation if you eat too much or if you don’t drink extra water while eating it. This side effect may be worse if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If you experience diarrhea after eating flaxseed products like breads or cereals, try cutting back on how much you eat.
Tiesha loves to share her passion for everything that’s beautiful in this world. Apart from writing on her beauty blog and running her own beauty channel on Youtube, she also enjoys traveling and photography. Tiesha covers various stories on the website.