Ground Flaxseed

Ground Flaxseed is a natural source of fiber (including mucilage), absorbing excess liquid, protecting the digestive tract and promoting bowel regularity. While the oil pressed from flaxseed is rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, the seeds themselves are also a concentrated source of lignans.

Featuring concentrated amounts of Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), flaxseed oil is nature’s greatest vegetarian source of vegetarian Omega-3 Fatty Acids. ALA is called an esssential fatty acid because it is vital to our health and since our bodies cannot produce it on their own, it is essential that we receive it from dietary sources.

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute has suggested that adding flaxseeds, walnuts and canola oil into your daily meal plan. These foods are high in an omega-3 fat called alpha-linolenic acid and appear to lower triglyceride levels. Fatty fish, such as bluefish, salmon, halibut and sardines, also contain omega-3 fats. Including these fish two to three times a week may help keep triglyceride levels stable.

Several clinical trials have concluded that eating fish regularly or supplementing with fish oils can reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death by as much as 50%.

Flaxseed has been a coveted source of health for millennia. Ancient Egyptians and Greek physicians like Hippocrates touted its ability to cure various ills. In the 8th century A.D., King Charlemagne thought flax so essential to health that he wrote a series of laws requiring his subjects to consume a certain amount each year.

Flax tips

1. Grind the seeds or else chew them very well to get the most benefit - whole seeds simply pass through the body. Grinding the seeds just before using them best preserves flavour and nutrition, but pre-ground seeds are more convenient.

2. Keep them refrigerated

3. There are no nutritional differences between brown and yellow seeds

4. Combine flaxseed flour with wheat flour for breads and pancakes

5. The oil can degenerate quickly; keep refrigerated or in a dark place. It usually comes in dark bottles to extend its shelf life

6. Flaxseed oil cannot be used for frying or sauteing.

7. Pregnant or lactating women should not eat lots of flax

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