DavidWolfe.comFlax seeds are small brown or tan seeds that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The healthy fats and other nutrients flax seeds contain provide the body with plenty of health benefits. In fact, flax seed benefits include the ability to lower cholesterol levels, aid in weight loss, improve digestive health, and even help protect the body from cancer.
Flax Seed Benefits
1. Provides the Body with Fiber
Flax seed benefits include the ability to provide with body with a healthy dose of fiber. You see, flax seeds contain a water soluble fiber that works to improve digestive health. A high-fiber diet can help reduce sugar cravings, aid in fat loss, and also ensure that the digestive system runs smoothly.
2. Promotes Skin and Hair Health
Flax seed benefits include the ability to promote healthy skin and hair. The healthy fats in flax seeds help hydrate the skin and nourish hair to reduce dryness and flakiness. In addition, flax seeds can help improve skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and eczema. Therefore, to support skin and hair, try adding 1-2 tablespoons of flax seed to your daily smoothie.
3. Aids in Weight Loss
Next, flax seed benefits include the ability to aid in weight loss. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, flax seeds and walnuts can help fight obesity and support weight loss. Flax seeds contain both healthy fats and fiber, which help promote a feeling of satiety to prevent overeating. (1)
4. Lowers Cholesterol
Research has shown that adding flax seeds to your diet can help reduce cholesterol levels. For example, the soluble fiber in flax seeds help prevent cholesterol from being absorbed. Therefore, flax seed benefits the body by working as a natural remedy to prevent high cholesterol. (2)
5. Provides Gluten-Free Nutrients
Flax seeds are gluten-free, so they are a safe choice for those who have Celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. Flax can be used to replace other grains that do contain gluten. As an added bonus, the healthy fats in flax seeds provide plenty of anti-inflammatory benefits for the body.
6. Provides the Body with Antioxidants
Flax seed benefits also include the ability to provide the body with healing antioxidants. They contain lignans, which are known for their ability to promote hormone balance and cellular health. Lignans also provide anti-aging properties, as well as antiviral and antibacterial properties. These are amazing little seeds!
7. Improves Digestive Health
Flax seed benefits the body by improving digestive health. Both the fiber and the essential fats help digestion. For one, the healthy fats in flax seed help protect the lining of the digestive tract, which may be especially beneficial for those suffering from Crohn’s disease and other digestive problems. And the fiber content helps move foods through the digestive tract.
8. Fights Cancer
According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Cancer Research, consuming flax seeds may help decrease the risk of breast cancer. In fact, the lignans in flax seed can help naturally balance hormone levels to reduce the risk of breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer. (3)
9. Provides the Body with Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Flax seed benefits include the ability to provide the body with omega-3 fatty acids. You see, this little seed has a high concentration of ALA, an Omega-3 essential fat. Omega-3’s play an important role in the body’s overall health. Furthermore, they help fight inflammation to reduce the risk of inflammatory disease.
10. Relieves Menopause Symptoms
Lastly, flax seed benefits include the ability to relieve menopause symptoms. The lignans in flax seeds work to balance hormone levels and maintain cycle regularity. So add 1-2 tablespoons of flax seed to a breakfast smoothie each day to help balance hormone levels.