Flaxseeds – What Is That Little Seed All About Anyway?

It’s pretty amazing how such a small seed can pack such a big punch!

Loaded with many health benefits, this little brown teardrop brings happiness to all who incorporate it into their diet.

Studies have shown that consuming flaxseed can help lower “bad” cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar levels, and fight cancer, in particular breast and colon cancer.

The fibre that it supplies is great for the digestive track, and the “good” fat that it has also helps with weight management. One tablespoon of ground flaxseed provides just 40 calories of fat fighting fat, keeping you fuller for longer!

It helps lubricate the joints and tissues and, it has been known to also relieve osteoarthritic pain.

And did you know that taking in this healthy fat also provides your skin the needed oil that gives it its healthy glow?  Yes, it does that too!

Packed with vitamins, minerals, and omega 3 fatty acids, flaxseeds are a great addition to smoothies, nonfat yogurt, oatmeal, salads, and soups, and so much more! It has a light nutty flavor and tastes great when added to your favorite dishes.  I even know of one fabulous cook who adds it to their tomato sauce/sugo to give it a deeper flavor, while providing all those healthy benefits mentioned above! 

Good and good for you!

The best way to buy flax is in its whole form, and to ingest it ground.  You can grind it yourself a bit at a time, either with a coffee grinder, a food processor, or a hand blender, and store the rest in the refrigerator, as the whole seed keeps fresher longer than the ground, while ingesting it ground is better absorbed than whole! 

So the next time you’re walking down the grocery store baking aisle, don’t overlook that bag of little brown seeds…it could be one of the best investments you make in keeping your body healthy!