Benefits of Flaxseeds – Flaxseeds are a vegetarian source of Omega 3 fatty acids. Include flaxseeds in your diet because they are full of fiber and helps in weight loss.

Flaxseeds are one of the oldest crops. They are known to have been cultivated in Babylon in 3000BC. For centuries, flaxseeds have been celebrated for its health properties. No wonder people are hailing it as “super food” these days and health Benefits of Flaxseeds are enormous. Include flaxseeds in your diet because they are full of fiber and helps in weight loss.

What are Flaxseeds?

Flaxseeds are also known as alsi in Hindi in India. These brown or golden seeds are from the Flax (Linum usitatissimum) plant and are often known as linseed. This is the plant whose fiber gives you linen!  Flaxseeds or flaxseed oil is used in traditional cuisines of Asia, America, and Africa.

 

Here are 6 Benefits of Flaxseeds that you probably didn’t know

High in Omega-3 fatty acids

If you are a vegetarian or someone who doesn’t eat fish, flaxseeds are for you. One of the most important benefits of flaxseeds remains in its ALA or alpha-linolenic acid. Flaxseeds are a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acid and perfect for vegans. The human body doesn’t produce this fatty acid and you need to obtain it from the food you eat. The ALA in flaxseeds prevents cholesterol from being deposited in the blood vessels of the heart.

 

Rich in Dietary Fiber

Flaxseeds are rich in dietary fiber and help to keep you full longer. Just one tablespoon of flaxseeds contains 3 grams of fiber. Flaxseeds contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Flaxseeds are useful for preventing constipation and helps those who have irritable bowel syndrome.

 

Contain High-Quality Protein

Flaxseeds are a great source of plant-based protein. Flaxseed protein is rich in the amino acids arginine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid and makes it a great option for vegans. If you are cutting down on meat, include flaxseeds in your diet.

Helps in Weight loss

If you are struggling to stop unhealthy snacking and eating frequently, flaxseeds could help you. Flaxseeds are great to help stave off hunger pangs. The soluble fiber in flaxseeds slows digestion in the stomach and keeps you full longer. Add flaxseeds in whole-wheat crackers or cookies.

 

Controls Diabetes

The insoluble fiber content in flaxseeds aids in lowering blood sugar levels. This insoluble fiber slows down the release of sugar into the blood. Include flaxseeds in your diet in smoothies or snacks if you are suffering from Type 2 Diabetes.

 

Prevents Cancer

Flaxseeds are a Rich Source of Lignans – a plant compound that has antioxidants and estrogen. Both of these are known to help lower the risk of cancer. Flaxseeds contain up to 800 times more lignans than any other plant foods.

How to include flaxseeds in your diet?

You can add ground flaxseeds in a number of ways and use it daily. 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed is (10 grams) is all you need per day.

1. Sprinkle Flaxseeds on your morning cereals.
2. If you make granola bars, add flaxseeds in them
3. Do you knead and make oven-fresh bread at home? Add flaxseeds, oats, and make a healthy multigrain bread
4. Add flaxseeds in your smoothies
5. Like Greek Yogurt? Add flaxseeds on top for the added crunch. This is a healthy snacking option.
6. Use roasted flaxseeds for chutneys and dips or your hummus.

Read: Strawberry Yogurt Breakfast Bowl

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When it comes to nutritional goodness, flaxseeds are full of it. Benefits of flaxseeds have been known since ages and it’s great to see people awakening to its versatility. include flaxseeds in your diet for a healthier you.