Flaxseeds are a desirable superfood due to their high nutritional content and health advantages. The small, nutty, and crispy seeds have recently gained popularity as a superfood, although they are among the oldest crops, having been farmed since the beginning of human history. These tiny seeds, often termed common flax or linseeds, grew thousands of years ago in the Middle East.
Long before flaxseeds were known for their fantastic health benefits, they created textiles. They have become a staple in healthy eating due to their high omega-3 fatty acids and fibre content. Some individuals also refer to them as “functional food,” which means food that can boost health. For example, tiny brown seeds are known to improve digestion reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
- Weight loss
Nuts and seeds play a significant role in a weight management diet plan, and flaxseeds are among them that may be used when the goal is to lose weight. The tiny brown seeds are high in fibre, which helps decrease hunger and cravings and keep you from engaging in unhealthy snacking. Modern data even found that flaxseeds can help people lose weight if they are obese or overweight.
- Lower blood cholesterol level
These seeds can assist in decreasing Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or harmful cholesterol levels. Eating flaxseeds regularly may help reduce cholesterol levels by 6% to 11% because of their high fibre and lignan content. Both substances attach to bile acids, amphipathic molecules generated in the liver from cholesterol, and transport them out of the body via the digestive system. These tiny seeds work well in conjunction with cholesterol-lowering medications.
- Digestion
Flaxseeds include both soluble and insoluble fibre. Both fibres can assist in bulking up the faeces and ensure that it passes quickly through the gut. Soluble fibre softens faeces, but insoluble fibre stimulates the digestive system to pass waste through the gut and promotes smooth digestion. Eating flaxseeds regularly can help individuals who suffer from constipation and inflammatory bowel disease. When including flaxseeds in their diet, individuals must drink enough fluids throughout the day.
- Skin health
Lignans and other antioxidants found in flaxseeds can also reduce facial wrinkles. In addition, using flaxseed oil directly on the skin can considerably minimise skin irritation, roughness, and cracking. Flax seeds’ fatty acids also help maintain the skin hydrated and soft. Furthermore, it helps restore damaged hair and the prevention of eczema and dandruff.
- Reduces the chance of Cancer
Studies indicate that flaxseed components may even guard against breast, prostate, and colon cancer. In addition, lab research discovered that its substances could suppress tumour growth. For example, eating flaxseeds can cut the chance of getting breast cancer by 18%, according to a Canadian study of 6,000 women.
