What is flaxseed?
Flaxseed or linseed is a small seed that originated in the Middle East. The active compounds in flaxseed are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), fibre and ligans and between them they have some powerful actions. They are anti-inflammatory, they have antioxidant properties, and they help to manage fats in our body.
Benefits of flaxseed
This incredible food has good research showing positive health benefits for a range of conditions including:
– cardiovascular disease
– cancer
– gastro-intestinal health
– hormonal status, particularly symptoms of menopause
– skin conditions
– diabetes
– brain development and function
The fibre is great for gut health and has been shown to benefit both constipation and diarrhoea. Flaxseed is soluble fibre which is gentle rather than bran that can abrase the gut lining.
Our brains rely on good fats for function. We need a balance of omega-6 to omega-3 oils. Omega-6 oils are plentiful in the modern diet which is abundant in animal products and vegetable oils. Omega-3 fats are mainly found in small, oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines and herring which are less popular these days. ALA, present in flaxseed, is an omega-3 fat and a precursor to DHA and EPA which is found in oily fish and essential for brain health.
Flaxseed supports oestrogen balance and so can be helpful for premenstrual tension and menopause symptoms. Because of its effect on oestrogen, it is NOT recommended for pregnancy.
How to use it
It is best to grind the seeds to make the nutrients more easily absorbed. Grinding them in a small coffee grinder (available for less than £20 on Amazon) makes the nutrients available for the body to use. The high fat content means it can oxidise easily and become rancid so best to grind a small amount and store in an airtight jar in the fridge. Grind your own seeds and save money! 500g of linseeds cost around £2.80 vs. ground linseed to buy, 425g at £5.80!
Flaxseed is heat stable, so it is great to use in baking and cooking. I add a spoonful or two to pesto, pancakes, omelette, muffins, cookies, banana bread – the list goes on
