It’s a new month which means it’s time to post another food in my series on foods that are known for their healing properties. You can read more about this series here if you aren’t familiar. For August we’re talking about Flaxseeds and why it’s considered such a nutritional powerhouse.
Just one tablespoon of Flaxseeds’ provides a good amount of protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, in addition to being a rich source of some vitamins and minerals. Flaxseeds are one of the oldest crops. There are two types, brown and golden, which are equally nutritious. Flaxseeds have been labeled as a superfood and for good reason, as you will see below.
1. Flaxseeds are a good source for many nutrients. Their health benefits are mainly due to their content of omega-3 fats, lignans and fiber. Lignans are plant compounds that have antioxidant and estrogen properties, both of which can help lower the risk of cancer and improve health.
2. Flaxseeds are rich in dietary fiber, which helps to improve digestive health.
3. The high fiber content of flaxseeds can help lower cholesterol and may play a role in improving heart health.
4. Flaxseeds have been proven to lower blood pressure and are especially helpful for those with high blood pressure.
5. Flaxseeds are a good source of plant-based protein and can be an alternative protein source for people who do not eat meat.
6. Flaxseeds may lower blood sugar due to their insoluble fiber content. They can be a beneficial addition to the diet of people with diabetes.
7. Flaxseeds’ dietary fiber may aid in weight control by suppressing hunger and increasing feelings of fullness.
Flaxseeds are highly versatile and can easily be added to your daily diet in very simple ways. Some examples are:
- Drizzling flaxseed oil as a dressing on salad
- Sprinkling ground flaxseeds over your hot or cold breakfast cereal
- Mixing them into yogurt
- Adding them to smoothies
- Adding them into cookie, muffin, bread or other batters
- Adding them to water as an egg substitute
Additionally, I’m including 10 recipes below to incorporate more of this superfood in to your diet.
Making Healthy Choices
Flax, Hemp and Chocolate Chip Baked Protein Oatmeal
And a Dash of Cinnamon
Your Choice Nutrition
Judy Matusky
Key Ingredients
Healthy Patriotic No Bake Mini Cheesecakes
Your Choice Nutrition
Key Ingredients
3 Minute Microwave Banana Chocolate Chip Protein English Muffin
And a Dash of Cinnamon
Key Ingredients
Key Ingredients
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Other post from my Healing Foods Series:
January: Citrus
Februray: Broccoli
March: Artichokes
April: Salmon
May: Berries
June: Eggplant
July: Bell Peppers
Thanks for including my posts! Flaxseeds are a great addition to anyone’s diet.