Does Flax Seed Speed Up Metabolism?

There are many nutritional supplements that can enhance your metabolism. Flax seed is one of these supplements, and is available at vitamin shops and some grocery stores. Here, we will examine the many health benefits of flax seed and its effect on metabolism.

Identification

• Flax seeds are a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber. This fiber helps to cleanse the colon of toxins and metabolic waste. Flax seeds also contain lignans, which have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Flax seeds are a great way to get essential fatty acids (EFAs) into your daily diet. Not only does flax seed contain omega-3 fatty acids, but it also contains alpha linolenic acids. This enhances insulin response within the muscle cells, which is important for anyone who lifts weights regularly. Finally, flax seeds are a good source of protein, which is easy to digest.

Types

• Three types of flax seed supplements are available on the market. The first is flax seed oil, which is easy to add to liquid beverages such as protein shakes. The second form is in seed form. It is important when purchasing flax seed in this manner to buy it ground up or grind it yourself. Whole flax seeds simply pass through the body too quickly and are not absorbed. Ground flax seeds are easy to put on salads, yogurt and cereal. The last form of flax seed is supplement form, which can be found at your local vitamin shop. Many people take one pill in the morning and one in the evening to get their daily dose of flax seed.

Benefits

• The American Heart Association recommends supplementation with flax seeds. This is because the omega-3 and -6 fatty acids are key in speeding metabolism, and flax seed is the richest source of these EFAs. This can help improve cardiovascular health, it has also been found that a diet higher in omega-3 fatty acids can aid in the shedding of body fat and and preserve lean muscle. Adding flax seeds into your daily diet can help the body feel satiated. The result is the feeling of fullness for longer periods of time, resulting in less calories consumed.

Considerations

• When choosing flax seed or flax seed supplements, it is important to pick which one will be easiest to incorporate into your diet daily. Ground flax seeds are a great choice for anyone who likes texture and a somewhat nutty taste. If you are pressed for time, then the flax seed oil may be the best option, since it can be put into beverages or protein shakes. Many people prefer to take flax seed oil in capsule form, with their other daily vitamins.

Potential

• Flax seeds are a good way to get omega-3 and -6 fatty acids into your diet. It is also a way to cleanse the colon and remove waste, help good bacteria flourish in the intestines and help the body feel full. Supplementing with flax seeds daily can help to increase metabolism, stabilize blood sugar and increase energy. Combining flax seed supplements with exercise can also help to build and preserve lean muscle mass.