About Flaxseed

Flaxseed may be tiny, but it is big on health and nutrition.It ranks high on the list of "must-have" foods because it is rich in Omega- 3 fatty acids, healthy fats that have anti-flammatory properties, proteins,fibre and lignans (phytoestrogens that helps to protect against certain types of cancer). In addtion, flaxseed contains vitamins B1. B2, B6, B9 C and E, carotene, iron, zinc and trace amounts of potassium, magnesium, phosporous, calcium, manganese and folate.

Boasting as many nutrients, it is not surprising then that flaxseed is highly beneficial to the body. Flaxseed promotes cardiovascular health, counters inflammation associated with lupus and gout, prevents certain types of cancer, treats some immune disorders, stabiliese blood sugar levels, promotes healthy skin, protects the digestive tract, helps with weight control and provided relisf from constipation.

Slightly larger than a sesame seed, flaxseed has a hard shell that is smooth and shiny.The color range from dark yellow to reddiesh brown depending on the variety. There are no nutritional differences between the two.

Use Flaxseed in grounded form for easy disgestion. To grind flaxseed, use a coffee grinder.

Uses:
1. Add flaxseed to salad, bread dough and cookie or pancake mix for warm and earthy nutty flavour.
2. Ground flaxseed go well with cereals, yoghurt, cottage cheese, juices, smoothies and soup.
3. Flaxseed can substitute egg or fat in recipes. To replace one egg, mix one ground flaxseed with three tablespoon of water and let the mixture sit for two mintues before using it.. The finishing product maybe chewier.

Flaxseed oil, the result of cold pressing flaxseed, is also a good source o f Omega-3 fatty acid, although it doesn't have fibre, lignans and protein found in seed. As Flaxseed oil is highly unsaturated, it is very prone to oxidation unless it is stored correctly.Buy only refrigerated flaxseed oil stored in dark container. Keep them in the refrigerator with the lid on tight, minimise exposure to heat, light and air, and consume them within a few weeks of opening.Never heat or cook flaxseed oil, and add it to foods like salad, soups or smoothies just before serving.Taking flaxseed oil with high quality protein such as yoghurt or milk helps to enhance the oil's digestion and absorption by the body.

Like and fibrous food, flaxseed can upset your digestion if you consume too much, too quickly. Taking one tablespoon if flaxseed oil will provide enough essential fatty acids for the body.Drink plenty of water when consuming flaxseed.