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Product Highlight: The Many Benefits of Flaxseed

At Natural Wellness Corner, you will find many products that can aid in your health. I’m excited to delve into a tiny yet mighty seed that has been gaining popularity for its numerous health benefits—flaxseed. Whether you’re a seasoned health nut or just beginning your wellness journey, flaxseed is a fantastic addition to your diet. As a registered dietitian, I’ll guide you through its benefits, uses, and tips for incorporating it into your daily routine.

spoon of ground flaxseed above whole flaxseeds

What is Flaxseed?

Flaxseed, also known as linseed, is derived from the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum). It has been cultivated for thousands of years and is prized for its nutritional value. Flaxseeds come in two varieties: brown and golden. Both are equally nutritious and offer a wealth of health benefits.

Nutrient Profile

Flaxseed is a nutritional powerhouse. Just one tablespoon (about 7 grams) contains:

Calories: 37
Protein: 1.3 grams
Carbs: 2 grams
Fiber: 1.9 grams
Total fat: 3 grams
Omega-3 fatty acids: 1,597 mg
 
Additionally, flaxseeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and thiamine (Vitamin B1).

Health Benefits of Flaxseed

1. Rich Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Flaxseeds are one of the best plant-based sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that is essential for heart health. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease.

2. High in Dietary Fiber: Flaxseeds are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. This fiber aids in digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and helps maintain a healthy gut. It can also aid in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness.

3. Loaded with Lignans: Flaxseeds are rich in lignans, plant compounds that have antioxidant and estrogenic properties. Lignans may reduce the risk of breast cancer, improve overall hormonal balance, and provide anti-aging benefits.

4. Supports Heart Health: The combination of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans in flaxseed contributes to lower cholesterol levels, reduced blood pressure, and improved heart health.

5. May Help Manage Diabetes: The high fiber content in flaxseeds can help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.

How to Incorporate Flaxseed into Your Diet

1. Ground Flaxseed: Whole flaxseeds can pass through the digestive system undigested, so it’s best to consume ground flaxseed. You can buy pre-ground flaxseed or grind it yourself using a coffee grinder. The Flaxseed sold at Natural Wellness Corner is conveniently already ground for use.

2. Add to Smoothies: Blend a tablespoon of ground flaxseed into your favorite smoothie for a nutrient boost.

3. Baked Goods: Incorporate flaxseed into your baking. Add it to muffins, bread, pancakes, or cookies. It can also serve as an egg substitute in vegan recipes (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).

4. Sprinkle on Cereal, Oatmeal, or Yogurt: Add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed to your morning cereal, oatmeal, or yogurt for added fiber and omega-3s.

5. Mix into Soups and Stews: Stir ground flaxseed into soups, stews, or casseroles for a nutritional boost without altering the flavor.

Quick Tips for Storing Flaxseed

To maintain its nutritional value, store flaxseed in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. This prevents the oils from becoming rancid. Ground flaxseed is more prone to spoilage, so it’s especially important to keep it cool. You will find our ground flaxseed in our store refrigerator! 

Flaxseed is a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet. Its impressive array of health benefits, including heart health support, digestive aid, and potential cancer-fighting properties, make it a worthy staple in your pantry. By incorporating flaxseed into your daily routine, you can take a significant step toward better overall health.

Remember, while flaxseed offers many benefits, it should be part of a balanced diet. As always, consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

To learn more about other products we sell in store, check out this article on the Life Span Wellness Shake, or tune into our weekly blog posts!
Stay healthy and happy eating!

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