The health benefits of flaxseed have been recognized in traditional cuisines across Asia, America, and Africa. Its high nutritional and therapeutic value may surpass that of any other grain. Flaxseed is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, and lignans. Together, these components help fight numerous conditions, including cardiovascular problems, inflammation, arthritis, allergies, asthma, and diabetes. Flaxseed also reduces the risk of various types of cancer and supports reproductive health in women. It's also a good source of vitamins and fiber, which help maintain a healthy heart and gut, while supporting the skin, eyes, and hair.
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Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Flaxseed is rich in B-complex vitamins and vitamin E, as well as minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and iron.
Vitamin E is essential for healthy skin and bones. Potassium supports the nervous system, while iron is a vital component of red blood cells and many enzymes that affect overall metabolism.
Flaxseed is also a good source of protein, with a high index of essential amino acids that fulfill a large part of our body’s daily protein needs.
High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Flaxseed is second only to fish oil in terms of omega-3 content. Omega-3 fatty acids are powerful anti-inflammatory agents. Inflammation is a major contributor to heart disease, allergies, asthma, diabetes, and even certain cancers.
Rich in Soluble and Insoluble Fiber
While soluble fiber helps maintain proper gastrointestinal function, insoluble fiber plays a key role in heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. This also helps maintain stable blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Antioxidants and Hormonal Balance
Flaxseed contains a wealth of phytonutrients that act as antioxidants—key agents in cancer prevention and immune defense. It is especially rich in lignans, which help balance female hormones. Studies show that lignans support reproductive health, ease menopausal symptoms, and help manage the effects of type-2 diabetes.
Boosts Immunity
Alpha-linolenic acid in flaxseed enhances the immune system and helps prevent inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, autoimmune disorders, and lupus.
Supports Healthy Weight Loss
Flaxseed is a staple in many weight-loss programs. Thanks to its fiber content, it promotes a feeling of fullness and helps prevent overeating, while keeping blood sugar stable.
Lignans in flaxseed may also serve as a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy due to their estrogen-like properties. These compounds help prevent osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women.
Healthy Ovaries: For menstruating women, regular consumption of flaxseed can help regulate the cycle and reduce ovarian dysfunction.
To learn more about the best foods for your unique body, you can book a pulse diagnosis session with Dr. Avishek Mishra from India.
Cancer Protection
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce the risk of breast, prostate, and colon cancers.
Keeps Your Eyes Healthy
Consuming flaxseed oil can reduce symptoms of dry eyes.
Omega-3 intake may also reduce the risk of macular degeneration—a common eye condition caused by nerve damage.
Effective for Skin Conditions: Flaxseed oil may soothe irritated skin caused by acne, rosacea, or eczema.
Flaxseed oil also strengthens brittle nails and damaged hair and soothes scalp irritation caused by eczema.
Kidney Health
Flaxseed has been proven to reduce inflammation rates in the kidneys in cases of nephritis.
Walnut Cookies with Flaxseed and Figs
Ingredients:
1/3 cup whole flaxseed
1/4 cup flaxseed meal
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp + 1 tsp brown sugar
4 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
About 1 cup chopped dried figs (approx. 7 figs)
1/2 cup soy milk
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole flaxseed, flaxseed meal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Add the butter and beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes dense.
Add the walnuts, figs, and soy milk and mix until smooth dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
On a floured surface, roll out half of the dough and cut into a lattice pattern. Transfer cookies to a dry baking sheet using a spatula. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes. Let cool before serving.
Besides food, exercise and breathwork are essential to our health. You can learn more about these on the Happiness Program by The Art of Living Foundation.
