Is flaxseed the new wonder food? Preliminary studies show that it may help fight heart disease, diabetes and breast cancer.
Some call it one of the most powerful plant foods on the planet. Thereâs some evidence it may help reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes. Thatâs quite a tall order for a tiny seed thatâs been around for centuries.
Flaxseed was cultivated in Babylon as early as 3000 BC. In the 8th century, King Charlemagne believed so strongly in the health benefits of flaxseed that he passed laws requiring his subjects to consume it. Now, thirteen centuries later, some experts say we have preliminary research to back up what Charlemagne suspected.
Flaxseed is found in all kinds of todays foods from crackers to frozen waffles to oatmeal. The Flax Council estimates close to 300 new flax-based products were launched in the U.S. and Canada in 2010 alone. Not only has consumer demand for flaxseed grown, agricultural use has also increased. Flaxseed is whats used to feed all those chickens that are laying eggs with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
Although flaxseed contains all sorts of healthy components, it owes its primary healthy reputation to three of them:
Oatmeal is a whole grain that is high in fiber and nutrients, and flaxseed is a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein. Some potential health benefits of oatmeal with flaxseed include: They are both high in fiber, which help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Who Shouldnât Use Flaxseed?
Until more is known, Thompson says, pregnant women and possibly breastfeeding mothers should not supplement their diets with ground flaxseed.
“Our own animal studies showed that flaxseed exposure during these stages may be protective against breast cancer in the offspring. But a study of another investigator showed the opposite effect,” Thompson says.
Flaxseed Isn’t a Magic Bullet
Its tempting to think of flaxseed as a super food because of its many potential health benefits. But keep in mind there is no magic food or nutrient that guarantees improved health.
What matters is consistently making great dietary choices as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
Overnight Oats… with FLAX SEEDS? (Must Try!)
FAQ
What happens to your body when you start eating flax seeds daily?
What does flaxseed do to a woman’s body?
How does flaxseed help with belly fat?
How much flaxseed should I put in my oatmeal?
Is flaxseed oatmeal good for You?
This flaxseed oatmeal has all the classic porridge components, but with added ground flaxseed. This makes it a little more nutritious, and more rich in fiber and protein, which means that the meal will give you a little extra energy at the start of your day.
Is flaxseed meal better than other meals?
Flaxseed meals have many healthy benefits such as improving digestive health or relieve constipation, helping to lower total blood cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (bad) cholesterol levels, which may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Other meals like chia o oatmeal also have many benefits. Do not eat more than 5 tablespoons of flaxseed a day, because you may experience bloating, gas, abdominal pain, nausea, or diarrhea. The best thing is to have a different meal every day.
Does flaxseed make oatmeal slimy?
Flaxseeds are a thickener (which is why it works well as an egg replacement), too much will make your oatmeal too thick and could also make it a little slimy. Read through the recipe before getting started and read through this post from top to bottom for lots of tips to make it perfectly, every single time.
Can you add flax seeds to oatmeal?
With all the amazing benefits of flax seeds , we try to add a scoop to everything we can. It’s great in oats, baked goods, and even in smoothies for a boost. Adding flaxseeds to oatmeal couldn’t be easier – you can make your own oatmeal or use a packet of Instant Oatmeal (no shame for an easy button!).