By: Lee Dobbins
Flaxseed has many health benefits, so it's no wonder that this ancient crop which has been around for over 4000 years is recently been the subject of many medical studies. Rich in antioxidants, soluble fiber, insoluble fiber in omega-3 fatty acids, this little seed has been shown to help lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglycerides and eat in preventing clogging of the arteries (atherosclerosis). In addition, researchers also think it may help
stabilize blood sugar, lower the risk of certain cancers and help reduce inflammation this is seeded with illnesses such as asthma, arthritis and Parkinson's disease.
One important reason to eat flaxseed is to help keep your heart healthy. In fact, one study showed that a flax seed every day showed lower cholesterol levels and a reduction in the tendency to form blood clots in only three months. Flaxseed contains Alpha linoleic acid (LNA) which your body can convert into EPA - the beneficial oil found in fish that is said to help reduce risk of heart attack and stroke. So if you can eat enough heart healthy fish, you can always add some flax seed to your diet.
Flax seeds provide fiber and vital nutrients such as magnesium and other trace minerals and today store well in your fridge. What you have to be careful about, however, is to be sure that you grind the seeds right before you use them. If you don't grind them, they will pass right
through your system and you won't get any of the benefits of the oil. But if you grind them ahead of time, the oil will oxidize and become rancid. You can grind them in a regular coffee grinder.
Another benefit of flax seeds is that they have a lot of fiber and can help soften your stools and relieve constipation. You do need to drink a lot of water when you are eating flax seeds because if you don't have enough liquids along with them it may have the opposite effect. Flax seeds can be and will give your food and nutty taste. Try sprinkling them over serial, putting them in your salads, eating them mixed in with cottage cheese ( the combination of cottage cheese plus flax seeds instead of cancer fighting properties) or even over ice cream.
Now if grinding up your own flax seeds every day seems like a lot of trouble you might try just adding some flax seed oil to your diet. You should store it in your refrigerator, though, as it can become rancid pretty quickly. Flax seed oil is high In the omega-3 fatty acids and you can use it on your salads, vegetables and even toast.
As with anything, you want to be careful where you buy it from. Buying organic flax seeds, or flax seed oil is your best bet and you want to be sure to get it from a trusted source so you know you're getting good quality food.
Lee Dobbins writes for Natural Health Buzz where you can learn more about natural health
and healing and find out more about flax seeds for better heart health.
Health-and-Fitness Article Source: http://www.eArticlesOnline.com
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