With the rising emphasis on fitness and healthy eating, a tiny seed has come in to much prominence- Flax or Linseed, also known as “Alasi” in Hindi. The benefits of Flax seed are numerous and this tiny brownish seed is packed with micronutrients, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and healthy cholesterol that help fight several ailments such as, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, hot flashes. A single table spoon of ground flax seeds contain 2 grams of poly-unsaturated fatty acids, 2 grams of fiber and 37 calories. What’s even better is flax seed helps in losing weight and keeps the heart cholesterol free.
Antioxidants That Fight Cancer:
The high level of omega 3 fatty acid and Lignans present in flax combats prostate cancer, colon cancer and breast cancer. Three types of Lignans found in flax seed are-secoisolariciresinol, matairesinol and pinoresinol that has capacity to affect the hormonal workings and control hormone related cancers and hormone dependent tumors.
Shields the Heart:
The positive impact of flax on human heart is boundless. About 50% of the calorie contained in flax comprises of fats, which is a mixture of several fatty acids such as, poly-unsaturated fats, mono-unsaturated fats, and very little saturated fats.Most of the poly-unsaturated fats remain in the form ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). Now, ALA is a “miracle” fatty acid that helps to reduce bad cholesterol, while leaving the good cholesterol in the blood intact. It also reduces blood-pressure and chances of stroke.
Controls Diabetes:
Lignans present in Flax seeds work effectively in controlling Type 2 Diabetes. Research shows that a daily intake of flax builds up insulin sensitivity in glucose intolerant people. This is because of the high level of soluble fibers in flax. Consumption of a table spoon of ground flax seeds for a month has shown to improve fasting blood sugar levels.
Protect against Inflammation:
Two specific agents present in flax seeds, namely ALA and lignans have the capacity to check the flow of certain pro-inflammatory agents that are responsible for arthritis pain, Parkinson’s disease, asthma, joint pain, etc.
Controls Hormonal Imbalance:
The antioxidant property of Flax seed has been shown to reduce the symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as, hot flashes and night sweat in post-menopausal women. Research has shown that a daily intake of about 40 grams or 2 table spoons of ground flax seed helps to improve moderate hormonal problems as well as overall psychological health.
Responsible for Flawless Skin and Shiny Hair:
The omega 3 fatty acids helps treat skin diseases like acne, allergies and sun sensitivity. In addition, it rejuvenates the skin, regenerates the skin tone and makes it smooth, supple and glowing. It fights the problems of hair fall, dry scalp, dandruff, brittle hair and supplies nourishment to the hair follicles to make the tresses healthy and strong.
Flax Seeds helps in Weight Loss:
Flax seed is an excellent addition to the diet if you are looking to shed some extra pounds and stay healthy. The high fiber content in flax makes it heavier as it absorbs fluids and expands in volume that keeps the tummy fuller for a longer time and check cravings and over-eating. This is highly favorable for weight loss. Although, calorie counters might feel a bit taken aback by the high calorie content of this seed, research shows that those calories come from “good fats” such as poly-unsaturated fats, and mono-saturated fats in the form of omega 3 fatty acids.
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