Flaxseed Weight Loss, Menopause and Omega 3 Fatty Acids
The Institute for Vibrant Living natural health research team has compiled some surprisng facts about flaxseed and the human diet.
Here is their report:
Flaxseed, the richest plant form of omega-3 fatty acids found in nature, has been linked to reducing the risk of cancer.
A recent US study has suggested that flaxseed, rich not only in omega 3 fatty acids, but also in lignans, can actually stop prostate cancer tumours from growing.
(Researchers from Duke University Medical Center surmised that flaxseed, which has similar properties to sesame seed, probably interrupts the chain of events that eventually makes cells multiply out of control and become a tumour.)
So, what exactly is flaxseed?
It's a grain much like oat and wheat, however, its nutritional value is far superior and it is also high in fiber.
Most of the flaxseed that you'll find on the market is grown in Canada and although a lot of people don't know much about it, it is considered one of the original "health" foods.
Flaxseed has been used as a healing "medicine" dating back to as early as the Roman Empire.
Why isn't this in common use today?
Although studies have shown the benefits of incorporating flax seed into our daily diet, one drawback is the short shelf life of flax seed.
Once a container of flax seed oil or flax seed meal is opened it must be kept in a refrigerator to keep it from going rancid.
Because of this, many people choose to buy flax seed oil in capsules to take as a supplement or, alternatively, buy the flax seeds they can then grind themselves in a coffee and spice mill.
Handy Tip: Grinding only as much as you need will keep the flax seed fresh longer and avoid spoilage.
Menopausal benefits for women?
Many women suffer serious menopausal symptoms as the body experiences hormonal swings.Taking hormones to offset the side effects of menopause is either not desirable or not an option for some women.
Since flaxseed contains natural plant-based estrogen (phytoestrogen), it can be helpful in keeping a woman's hormones in balance as she goes through the change. This offers the hope of a more natural way to get through menopause.
Another benefit of flaxseed's rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, is the possibility of lower heart attack risk since it provides a natural lubricant for the arteries. And because of this, it also helps to reduce cholesterol levels and high blood pressure as well.
Summary of possible health benefits of a flaxseed rich diet:
Promote cardiovascular health
High source of fiber and acts as a natural lubricant to the intestines
Reduce constipation
Improve immunity to help reduce colds and flu
Provide important fats that build brain function in babies when mothers take it during pregnancy and while nursing
Stabilize blood sugar
Promote healthy skin, aid in clearing acne, eczema and psoriasis
Aid in weight loss when used in foods, because of high fiber and zero carbs
Decrease inflammation - may be beneficial to people with rheumatoid arthritis
Oil contains lignans and phytoestrogens which may help to reduce symptoms of menopause
May ease symptoms similar to Colitis and Chron's disease by helping to heal the inner lining of the intestines
Realistic uses of flaxseed
Flaxseed is available in several forms. How you use it depends on personal choice, however, some forms are easier to use than others.
Since flaxseed has a slightly nutty taste, sprinkling the whole seed on salads, in soups or in muffins will give a crunchy, nutty flavor. However, whole seeds don't digest the same way meal or oil does. Whole seeds pass through the digestive tract, preventing the intestines from absorbing most of the nutrients.
Flaxseed meal can be purchased already ground or you can grind it yourself. There are many uses for flaxseed meal in cooking:
Adding a tablespoon or two to hot or cold cereal or sprinkling it on salads and soup not only enhances flavor, but it adds nutritional value.
Adding a tablespoon to yogurt can be a great start for the day.
Add to any recipe by exchanging cup of flour for cup of flaxseed meal.
For people who are lowering their egg intake, you can replace one egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal and 2 tablespoons of water. (Please note that the consistency of the food might change slightly)
Flaxseed oil capsules are also available as a daily supplement for people who either don't want to add it to food or don't enjoy the taste of it. It is also available as an oil substitute in cooking and can easily replace higher fat oils in salads and baking.
Should you decide to incorporate flaxseed into your daily diet, (who wouldn't after reading this article?) you'll have the potential to gain tremendous health benefits and best of all in a natural way!
Flaxseed Weight Loss, Menopause and Omega 3 Fatty Acids
By: David Flores
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