Did you know that one of the world’s first cultivated superfoods is flaxseeds? This small, powerhouse seed has been consumed for at least 6,000 years, and for a good reason, some even believe that flaxseed is one of the most powerful plant foods on the planet. So much so, flaxseeds have been prized for its health-protective properties for centuries. Even as early as 3000 BC flaxseed was being cultivated, and also revered, as King Charlemagne during the 8th century passed a law that actually required his subjects to consume flaxseeds because he believed so strongly about this wonder food.
Also known as linseeds, flaxseeds can be eaten whole or unground, ground, and even sprouted. However, by grinding the flaxseed, you are more likely to take advantage of their amazing benefits. If you still need more convincing before you add this healthy superfood into your daily check, check out some of the fantastic benefits of flaxseeds.
1. Are you looking for a way to make your hair and skin healthier? Flaxseeds are excellent for your hair, nails, skin, and eyes due to its concentration of healthy fats. If you want your hair to become stronger, shinier, and more resistant to damage, start incorporating flaxseeds, or flaxseed oil into your daily diet and routine.
2. High in a type of omega-3 called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, eating a tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains roughly 1.8 grams of omega-3s. These types of “good” fats actually have heart-healthy effects when ingested, and may even help in the fight against cancer. If you don’t eat fish or are a vegetarian, one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids is flaxseeds, so eat up.
3. Oddly enough, despite flaxseeds small size, they pack quite the mighty punch. It’s true. Flaxseeds are loaded with nutrients and are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. In fact, just one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds contains 1.3 grams of protein, 1.9 grams of fiber, 1,597 mg of omega-3s, 7% of the RDI of magnesium, 2% of the RDI of folate, and that’s only the tip.
4. Reducing inflammation in the body is vital if you want to have a body that is healthy and is in peak condition. Luckily, you can help reduce inflammation in your body by ingesting flaxseeds regularly. It is believed that the two components, lignans, and ALA, are the two components that may help reduce inflammation, especially when the inflammation is accompanied by an illness such as asthma or Parkinson’s disease and may even help prevent strokes and heart attacks.
5. If you want to improve your digestive health or are looking to encourage regular bowel movements, try adding flaxseeds to your diet. With every tiny seed being packed with so much fiber, these super-seeds are very useful at preventing and relieving constipation and work well for people who have diverticular disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
