What is flaxseed?
Flax is one of the first corps that mankind has ever domesticated. Flaxseed, flaxseed oil and linen are produced from flax. The products of this diverse corp are widely popular and used for booth medical a nutritional purposes. Many people consider flaxseed to be a “superfood” as they contain high amounts of dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals and have a low-fat content. Grounded flaxseed can easily be added to your favorite dishes in order to increase their nutritional value. Are there any potential health benefits of flaxseed for you? Should your diet contain any flaxseed? Why is flaxseed particularly important for those who follow a plant-based diet? Read our article and learn more about this magnificent health superfood!
Nutritional content of flaxseed
100 grams of flaxseed provide your body with 543 calories, which makes flaxseed a high-calorie food. However, you can consume moderate amounts of flaxseed even if you follow an energy-restricted diet. A tablespoon of flaxseed, which is approximately 10 grams, contains only 55 calories and offers you a wide variety of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Flaxseed is a calorie-dense and nutrient-rich superfood that can serve as an effective aid if you plan to increase your muscle mass by reaching caloric surplus.
Flaxseed has a particularly high protein content, which makes it ideal for those who are looking for a high-quality, plant-based protein source. The carbohydrate content of flaxseed is consist of almost 95% of dietary fibers. Numerous health effects are associated with the consumption of dietary fibers. A scientific research conducted by the Ege University of Izmir came to the following astonishing conclusion.
“Dietary fibers are known to be protective effect against certain gastrointestinal diseases, constipation, hemorrhoids, colon cancer, gastroesophageal reflux disease, duodenal ulcer, diverticulitis, obesity, diabetes, stroke, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.”1
If you are still clueless why flaxseed is often referred to as a “superfood” here is one more reason why they can be beneficial for your health. Flaxseed is the best plant-based, vegan sources of Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids.2 Here is the nutritional breakdown of flaxseed for our beloved health geek readers:
- Protein:3 g
- Carbs:9 g
- Fiber:3 g
- Fat:2 g
- Omega-3:81 g
- Omega-6:9 g
Vitamins and minerals
Flaxseed offers you high amounts of the following micronutrients:
- Vitamin B1: Vitamin B1, which is also known as thiamine, contributes to the normal metabolism and nerve functions.
- Copper: copper is an essential mineral, which cannot be synthesized by your body. Therefore you need to provide your body with copper throughout your diet.
- Magnesium: Magnesium contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, normal psychological functions, maintenance of normal blood glucose concentrations, maintenance of normal blood pressure and to the protection of DNA from oxidative stress.
- Phosphorous: This mineral plays a crucial role in the maintenance of bone health.
Health Benefits of Flaxseed
Disease prevention with flaxseed
The potential health benefits of regular flaxseed consumption are not only recognized by fitness enthusiasts and health junkies, but also by scientific researchers and global health organizations. According to the findings of a 2014 study, flaxseed can have a highly beneficial impact on your health.
“Flaxseed oil, fibers and flax lignans have potential health benefits such as in reduction of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, autoimmune and neurological disorders. Flax protein helps in the prevention and treatment of heart disease and in supporting the immune system.”3
Can flaxseed lower the risk of developing breast cancer?
A recently published study4 suggests that consuming flaxseed on regular basis might contribute to lowering the risk of developing breast cancer.
“Additionally, some clinical trials showed that flaxseed can have an important role in decreasing breast cancer risk, mainly in postmenopausal women.”4
Check out our webshop to find high-quality flaxseed products that can help boost your daily vitamin and mineral intake!
Do you like the flavor of flaxseed? Which is your favorite flaxseed product? Which potential health benefits are the most appealing to you? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think!