Just give me the Flax Ma'am: The Facts About Flaxseeds.

A spoon of whole brown flaxseeds.

Some call it flaxseed.  Others call it the most powerful food on the planet.

What is it about this tiny seed that has caused it to make waves among the health conscious?  It’s mainly three ingredients.  First, flax is a plant-based source of omega-3 essential fatty acids.  Second, flax contains lignans, plant chemicals classified as phytoestrogens  (meaning plants with estrogen-like properties).  Having a weak estrogen-like effect on the human body, phytoestrogens have the ability to block more potent estrogens, which can reduce the risk of hormonally dependent cancers.  Third, flax is a good source of fiber, both soluble and insoluble.

Specifically, flax has been promoted to reduce certain cancers.  In fact, the American Cancer Institute has singled out the flaxseed as one of six foods that deserves further study.  Flax has been linked to the reduction of heart disease by helping to reduce blood cholesterol LDL  (bad cholesterol) levels as well as triglycerides.  Regular consumption of flaxseed helps keep the arteries strong and pliable.  Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, the flaxseed helps prevent inflammatory conditions like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, migraines, and osteoporosis.  It even provides relief from the symptoms of menopause.  Like soy, it is a phytoestrogen that can act like hormone therapy to stabilize the body’s hormone levels. 

While flax oil also contains omega-3 fatty acids, it lacks the fiber and lignans of the seed. It’s best to buy your seeds whole.  You can buy brown or golden seeds.  Organic is best.  Don’t eat the seeds whole as they will not properly digest.  Grind them in an electric coffee grinder.  Grind only what you need as they quickly oxidize when exposed to air.  If for convenience, you must grind more than you will immediately consume, store the excess in the freezer for better freshness.  You can store whole seeds in a cool dark place for up to one year. 

If you are buying food products containing flaxseeds (and plenty do), make sure you check the ingredient label for ground not whole flaxseeds, again to ensure the best nutrient absorption. Ever notice that more and more egg cartons list omega-3 essential fatty acids as one of their ingredients?  This means that more and more chickens are enjoying flaxseeds as a staple in their daily diets.  One to two tablespoons a day and you are on your way to keeping the doctor at bay.