Fat intake is usually kept to a minimum in order to control weight and prevent cardiac problems, yet one kind of fat is beneficial for the heart and overall good health. “Good” fats are essential to maintain the health of organs like the lungs, brain, eyes and joints, and have highly specialized functions in neurological tissues, especially the brain and retina. Therefore, they are essential for the development of the brain and vision even of the fetus, and are known as essential fatty acids or EFAs.
Importance of Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Flaxseed
One of these “good” polyunsaturated fats is Omega 3, required for the formation of new tissues, and consequently, growth and development. These fats cannot be manufactured by the body, so their sources are food items like fish oil. Vegans and vegetarians and those who have intolerance to fish oil or fish have to depend on plant sources. Flaxseed is one of the richest sources of Omega 3. Its goodness seems to have been recognized by the French emperor Charlemagne in the eighth century, when he passed a law directing his subjects to take flaxseed to remain healthy.
Contents of Flaxseed
Flaxseed is available as flaxseed powder or flaxseed oil; the oil is derived from the seed of the flax plant, and is also called linseed oil. The omega 3 fat found in flaxseed is called alpha linolenic acid or ALA. Secondly, flaxseed contains phytoestrogens, a group of chemicals found in plants, and with properties like the hormone estrogen. They are from one of three chemical classes, one of them being lignan. Flaxseed has more lignan than soyabean and about a hundred times more than most whole grains, making it the richest source of lignan. Finally, apart from antioxidants and omega 3, it contains fiber, some vitamins and minerals.
Health Benefits of Flaxseed
The contents of flaxseed give it many health benefits. According to Gloria Tsang in Benefits of Flax seed in Heart Disease and Cholesterol Lowering, it controls triglycerides and cholesterol, thus preventing clots, risk of heart attack and stroke. It also controls blood sugar and blood pressure, and improves vision. Antioxidants in flaxseed boost immunity, and prevent breast and prostrate cancer.
Flaxseed ensures proper functioning of the kidneys and liver, and alleviates constipation by acting as a laxative. The ALA in flaxseed oil is beneficial in Crohn’s disease, which is an inflammatory bowel disease. Flaxseed helps the body to absorb calcium, and thus prevents bone loss and osteoporosis. It also alleviates arthritic symptoms like stiffness, and is beneficial for the joints.
Flaxseed for the Nerves, Skin and Metabolism
Omega 3 fatty acids are essential components of membranes of the nerve cells, and enable them to communicate with each other. Therefore, flaxseed is good for the brain, and even combats depression. Finally, flaxseed is beneficial for the hair and nails, and in skin related conditions like acne and eczema and even psoriasis.
Flaxseed increases the metabolism of the body and the burning of fat, thus helping in reducing and maintaining weight. Moreover, it helps to increase stamina and energy. Research is being carried out to test the effectiveness of flaxseed in improving lung function and thus alleviating asthma.
Flaxseed is a tiny seed with concentrated power and ensures good health. Its omega 3, fiber and antioxidant properties endow it with many health benefits like maintaining a healthy heart, brain and skin, increasing immunity and reducing the risk of some forms of cancer, bone loss and menopausal conditions.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only; it should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his/her health should contact a licensed medical professional before adding anything to the diet, as there may be side effects, especially if one is on medication.
Sources:
Jensen, Dr.Bernard, A guide to understanding and using the healing powers of natural foods, Health and Harmony Publishers, 2004.
Bakhru, Dr.H.K, Healing through natural foods, Jaico Publishing house, 2008.
Laura Dolson, Flax seed: the Low Carb Whole Grain , Lowcarbdiets.about.com.
Gloria Tsang, Benefits of Flax seed in Heart Disease and Cholesterol Lowering, Healthcastle.com.
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