What Are the Health Benefits of Flax Seeds?

A daily tablespoon of flax seed provides the essential nutrients needed to maintain optimal health. Flax seed is high in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, a nutritional super food that provides multiple health benefits.

Function

• Flax seed is an excellent source of fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Flax seed ranges from a golden tan to reddish brown color. Flax seed has versatile uses in yogurt, smoothies, juice, cereal, salads and pasta. Flax seed can be used with baked goods and used in recipes as an egg, butter and oil substitute.

Health Benefits

• Flax seed can help prevent cancer, heart disease, arthritis, inflammation, diabetes and high blood pressure. It can help improve digestion and immune health. It can also aid in perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. To receive the fiber benefit, it is recommended to consume flax seed instead of flax oil.

Nutritional Information

• Flax seed is abundant in Omega 3 and 6, fiber, lignans, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Flax seed is also rich in phytoestrogens, an important nutrient for women's health.

Types

• To receive the nutritional benefits of flax seed, flax seed should be ground, as the body is not able to digest the seeds whole. Flax seed can be bought ground or whole.

Egg, Butter, Oil Substitute

• Flax seed can be used as an egg, butter and oil substitute in baking to lower intake of cholesterol and saturated fats. Mix 1 tbsp. of flax seed with 3 tbsp. of water for each egg substitute. Three tbsp. of flax seed is the equivalent of 1 tbsp. of margarine, butter or oil. If using flax as an egg substitute, allow the mixture to set for a couple of minutes before adding it to the recipe.