There's a reason, or several, why flaxseeds are considered a superfood. Flaxseeds are a rich source of micronutrients, dietary fiber, manganese, vitamin B1, and ALA omega-3s. Research has also found that flaxseeds may help lower the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Here are several reasons why you should start incorporating flaxseeds into your diet:
1.Helps Lower Blood Cholesterol & Glucose Levels
Flaxseeds are rich in both soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves with water and creates a gel-like substance that helps lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Insoluble fiber absorbs water, which adds bulk to your digestive tract and helps to move things through quickly.
2.Cardiovascular Benefits
Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential to a healthy lifestyle and help protect our cardiovascular system. Omega-3 fatty acids help our body to function normally by controlling blood clots and building cell membranes in the brain. Omega-3 fatty acids help protect against heart disease and stroke.
3.Helps With Weight Management
Flaxseeds expand when ingested, making you feel fuller. Grind up flaxseeds into your morning smoothie.
4.Prevents Hot Flashes
A study published in the Journal of the Society for Integrative Oncology suggests that dietary intake of flaxseed can decrease hot flashes in post menopausal women.
5.Increases Immunity
Alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA, the primary omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseeds has been shown to decrease inflammation, allowing your immune system to function properly. Flaxseeds can help relieve autoimmune and inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and lupus.
6.Improves Blood Sugar
Strong evidence suggests that adding flaxseeds to your daily diet improves glycemic index control in obese individuals with pre-diabetes.
7.Protects Against Radiation
Research from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania found that a diet that includes flaxseeds helps protect skin tissue from being damaged by radiation. The anti-inflammatory properties in flaxseeds works as a protector against radiation pneumonopathy, lessening the effects of radiation and protecting the body from lung disease.
So try grinding up flaxseeds and adding them to smoothies, turkey burgers, sauces, or even baked goods!
Source:
The Science of Eating
Benefits of Flaxseeds
http://thescienceofeating.com/2015/03/18/benefits-of-flaxseeds/