Benefits Of Flax Seed

Flax seed is by no means a new comer to the health and wellness industry. However, few people, not in the know, are that aware of it's incredible contribution as a dietary supplement we should all take notice on. It maintains a high content of alpha linolenic acids which is what the dietary community has proclaimed as a modern miracle food. Alpha linolenic acid is a type of plant-derived omega 3 fatty acid, which is found in our fish supply.

There are many benefits of the seed as shown in many studies which include lowering overall cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (which is the bad cholesterol in our blood stream) levels. In addition, other benefits show that adding the seed to our diets (ground up first) may also aide in lowering our blood triglyceride and blood pressure. Another side benefit is it may also keep platelets from becoming too sticky therefore reducing the risk of a heart attack.

Even More Benefits Of The Wonder Seed

In addition to the alpha linolenic acid, this seed is also rich in lignan. Lignan is a phytoestrogen (antioxidant) and also provides our body with rich fiber. Researches reveal that lignan in flax seed shows a lot of promise in fighting disease -- including a possible role in cancer prevention especially focusing on breast cancer. It is thought that lignan metabolites can bind to estrogen receptors, thus inhibiting the onset of estrogen-stimulated breast cancer.

Still recent studies also showed positive benefits of flax seed oil in Crohn's Disease and Colitis. What we are finding is that the flax seed oil appears to be able to heal the inner lining of the inflamed intestines.

It is reccommended to moderately include the seed in your daily diet. Indeed, a lot of food products contain the seed already such as bread, cereal and bakery goods. Bakers may use flax seed flour or include flax seed in baking. As recently seen on Oprah with Dr. Oz, make sure you grind the seeds before including in your food or drink. Our body will not benefit from the seed if we do not grind the seed first.

With the Acai Berry and now this wonderful seed in your daily diet you are well on your way to a healthy and happy life style. YOur body thanks you and your healthcare professionals will be smiling on your next visit for a check up!

Notes on Omega 3

Omega-3 fatty acids are a key force against inflammation in our bodies. There is mounting evidence that shows inflammation plays a part in many chronic diseases including heart disease, arthritis, asthma, diabetes, and even some cancers. This inflammation is enhanced by having too little Omega-3 intake (such as in fish, flax, and walnuts), especially in relation to Omega-6 fatty acid intake (in such oils as soy and corn oil). In the quest to equalize the ratio of these two kinds of oils, flax seed can be a real help.

Oxidation/Rancidity: The oil in flax is highly unsaturated. This means that it is very prone to oxidation (rancidity) unless it is stored correctly. The very best way is nature’s own storage system – within the seed. Flax seeds not exposed to large amounts of heat stay safe to eat for at least a year. However, flax meal, and especially flax oil, are a different story. The meal, stored away from heat and light, will keep fresh for a few months, and the oil must be protected by refrigeration in dark containers, preferably being consumed within a few weeks of opening.

You should be able to locate this fine seed in your local grocery store chains and in fact online. Always do your research on where you buy from in advance to make sure you are dealing with a solid supplier. Stick to the name brands you recognize. When buying cereal that claims it contains the seed check the labels and compare them to others for the RDA daily contribution they claim.

Sports star, Barry Bonds even tried to proclaim he thought the steroids he was given where actually this wonderfull little seed. Too bad it wasn't because his career will be forever tainted now whether he is ultimately found innocent. It's truly a sad commentary to have come to this.