The properties of flaxseed are many. In fact, its seeds have become very popular in recent years thanks to its amazing nutritional values.
Discover in this article everything about flaxseed. Its medicinal properties and its uses and health applications.
Flaxseed is considered by many to be a grain because it has a vitamin and mineral scheme similar to these. However, most agree that it is a seed, rich in fiber and antioxidants, as well as being the best vegetable source of omega 3 fatty acids.
Nutritional values of flaxseed
Soluble and insoluble fiber
Flaxseed is a source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber is one that has the ability to help us regulate blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and has even been associated with the prevention of diverticulitis and prostate cancer.
For its part, insoluble fiber is related to better digestive function. It acts as a regulator of intestinal movement and serves as food for the bacterial flora. Therefore, it helps to digest food better for proper absorption of nutrients.
Omega 3 content
Flaxseed omega 3 fatty acid is considered one of its greatest benefits. It is important to note that it cannot be synthesized from other foods by the human body. Omega 3 fatty acid is also in foods like fish and shellfish. However, despite being synthesized by the body, it is not absorbed in the required amounts.
Linoleic acid (omega 3) is necessary to form anti-inflammatory eicosanoids. These play a very important role in the prevention of arthritis, eczema, asthma and some health conditions related to the female reproductive system.
Other components
In addition to all this, flaxseed contains some phytochemicals called lignans that have the power to fight free radicals. On the other hand, they provide great antioxidant benefits to the body.
At a nutritional level, among other properties, it can be highlighted that it contains B vitamins, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and thiamine. With just two tablespoons we provide the body with 8% of the recommended dietary fiber, and the same amount only has 74 calories.
Medical uses
Thanks to all its properties, flaxseed has a large number of medicinal uses. These have been known since ancient times to treat different health problems and prevent diseases. Below we give you the best medicinal benefits.
Lose weight
Due to its richness in vegetable fibers, flaxseed is one of the best allies for diets to lose weight. Its properties help us to have better digestion, improve our metabolism and also provide us with a more feeling of satiety.
In addition, consuming flaxseed makes muscles recover quickly. This happens thanks to the fact that it stimulates the use of fats for energy. As a consequence, we managed to burn fat and lose weight.
Lower cholesterol
The soluble fibers of flaxseed are ideal for reducing cholesterol in the blood. In fact, its consumption favors its elimination by natural means.
In addition, it has other benefits for our cardiovascular system. Flaxseed may help prevent blood clots, strokes, and cardiac arrhythmias.
It is anticancer
Flaxseed contains 27 anti-cancer components, among which lignin stands out. In addition, flaxseed eicosanoids have linked it in the prevention of breast cancer, endometriosis and ovarian cysts.
Therefore, flax is a superfood for women at any age. As we will see below, also for climacteric and menopause.
Relieve menopausal symptoms
Flavonoids in flaxseed can help treat the bothersome symptoms of menopause. For example, mood swings, hot flashes, and loss of libido.
In addition, the phytochemicals it contains are ideal for balancing the hormonal load, especially in women. For this reason, it is not recommended to consume while pregnant or lactating, but to increase fertility.
How do we consume it?
Flaxseed can be obtained in different presentations, such as oil, tablets, ground and whole seed. Experts assure that the best way to consume it is ground. This is because the oil oxidizes quickly and the whole flaxseed is too hard for the body.
It is recommended to buy whole flaxseed and grind it better at home. Flaxseed can be added to salads, meals, juices and even dissolved in water.
It can also be used as an egg substitute. The proper ratio is one tablespoon of flaxseed to three tablespoons of water for each egg. It also works as a fat substitute, instead of butter. The ratio is three tablespoons of flaxseed to two tablespoons of water for each tablespoon of butter.