Flaxseeds are quickly becoming a preferred choice of the dieticians, particularly because of the range of nutrients, these tiny seeds can offer to the body. Flax seeds are one of the most pocket friendly sources of nutrients that can help in keeping your body healthy and fit. It is packed with high amount of protein, vitamins and minerals. The constituents of these brown colored seeds can be effective not only to ensure a better heart health, but also to control blood Sugar levels. In this article we will delve into the top health benefits of eating flaxseeds.
First, let us take a quick look at the vital nutrients present in flax seeds
Omega-3-fatty acids: Omega -3 fatty acids are known for playing a crucial role in promoting better cardiovascular health and overall nourishment of the body. They also help in preventing cancer as well as boosting the metabolism of the body, providing weight loss benefits.
Fiber: Fibers make a good part of the flax seed and these fibers can be ideal for a better digestive health. They not only help in curing problems like constipation, but also keeps you filled and satiated for longer, helping you to control your total calorie intake.
Protein: The importance of proteins in smooth functioning of the human body is unprecedented and flax seeds can give you a good dose of proteins as well. The best part of the protein available from flax seeds is that, it comes without any unhealthy fat.
Lignans: Lignans are helpful to boost the estrogen level in the body and it also offers antioxidant properties. Flax seeds are a rich source of lignans that is easily absorbed by the body.
Vitamins: Flax seeds come with a high percentage of Vitamin B1, which ensures complete nourishment of the body. Apart from B1 it also includes Vitamin B6 in lower percentage.
Minerals: Flax seeds contain minerals like magnesium, phosphorous, selenium, iron, potassium, copper and zinc, all of which are vital for the smooth functioning of the body.
Having given a clear idea about the constituents of flax seeds that make it so healthy for consumption, now let us get into the health benefits of these seeds,
Promotes better cardiovascular health
One of the primary health benefits of flax seeds is their ability to protect the heart and to promote a better cardiovascular health. The polyunsaturated fats present in flax seeds help in controlling the level of cholesterol in the blood, which helps in controlling the blood pressure. The soluble fiber content of these seeds also helps in keeping the blood cholesterol in check by restricting the absorption of cholesterol in the digestive system. These seeds promote heart health and reduce the risk of heart attacks.
Helps in controlling diabetes
Flax seeds are also helpful for diabetics. The lignans present in these seeds has been found to be able to control the type 2 diabetes. According to studies, regular intake of flax seeds can increase glucose sensitivity in the body, helping in restricting the blood sugar levels.
Flax seeds to keep cancer at bay
Flax seeds have a high amount of Omega 3 fatty acids and lignans that work effectively in combating cancer of different organs. The types of lignans present in flax seeds are able to control the hormone levels in the body which can help in keeping any hormone related cancers or tumors at bay. The antioxidant contents of these seeds also offer great anti-aging benefits.
Flax seeds can limit common infections
The polyphenols present in flax seeds can promote the growth of probiotics in the gut which can be helpful to boost a better digestive system and also to control common stomach infections. The anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties of lignans can help in limiting common infections like cough and cold and also to boost the immunity system.
Flax seeds for better digestive health
One of the biggest health benefits of flax seeds is that they promote better digestive health which is directly related with the overall well being and proper functioning of the body. The Alpha Linolenic Acids present in the flax seeds help in protecting the digestive tract and ensure a better gastrointestinal health. It can control gut inflammations and is also effective in offering relief to people suffering from conditions like Crohn’s disease.
Offers protection against inflammation
The ALA and the lignans present in the flax seeds have been found to offer effective anti-inflammatory benefits. These two groups of nutrients can efficiently control inflammations caused due to arthritis or asthma.
Helps in controlling postmenopausal symptoms
Due to their perfect Lignan composition, flax seeds can be highly helpful in controlling postmenopausal symptoms. The lignans present in flax seeds have estrogenic properties that help in controlling post-menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, irritability and others. These seeds might also be helpful for the menstruating women to maintain the regular cycle, because of their estrogenic properties.
Flax seeds help in weight management
Obesity is becoming a serious problem in every society and flax seeds can be an effective item for better weight management. Flax seeds can support weight loss due to their high fiber content, which keeps you satiated for longer, reducing your total calorie intake. Flax seeds can also be helpful for burning more calories during exercise.
Flax seeds promote the health of skin and hairs
For healthy skin and beautiful hairs flax seeds can work as a magic potion. Being high in Alpha Linolenic Acids these seeds can give your skin and hairs the required nourishment. Flax seeds can also be helpful to cure skin conditions like acne and eczema by promoting overall better skin health. Flaxseed oil has been found to control the dry eye syndrome. The mineral content of these seeds along with the ALAs makes it a perfect diet for your hairs too.
Flax seeds can be consumed whole or grounded, raw or along with your meal. You can add ground flax seeds with your regular meals to get the best health benefits.
