Flaxseeds (also known as linseeds) are an amazing source of fibre, omega fatty acids, protein, manganese, vitamin B1 plus other micronutrients. The seeds are coloured brown or golden brown & have a mild nutty flavour. They are one of the richest plant sources of omega fatty acids which are essential for a healthy brain, heart, joints & immune system.
Flaxseeds contain the omega-3 form known as ALA (acid alpha-linolenic acid) which makes these seeds an important source of essential fatty acids for vegetarians & vegans.
Heart disease prevention research indicates that a minimum of two tablespoons of ground flaxseed per day can be good for your heart & may be effective at managing cholesterol.
Research also shows flaxseeds help with hormone regulation due to its high content of phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are a naturally occurring form of oestrogen & help to reduce high levels or boost low levels of oestrogen (think menopause!)
So why are they good when detoxing? They contain 27.3g per 100g of fibre which is great to help get the bowels moving & with a serve of 18.3g of protein per 100g added to a detox brekky smoothies they will provide you with energy to start your day.
5 Ways to Use Flaxseeds
1. Put one heaped dessertspoon of flaxseeds into a glass, cover with filtered water & leave overnight. Add the seeds to breakfast smoothies or drink on its own
2. Pour oil onto yoghurt, cottage cheese or use in your salad dressings
3. Include this moisturising oil as part of your skin routine
4. Add seeds to trail mixes, sprinkle on mueslis or add to bread mixes
5. Stir ground flaxseeds into porridge or use instead of breadcrumbs when making burgers, patties or meatloaf
Tips When Using Flaxseeds
Never cook with flaxseeds or their oil as heat renders them unstable.
Due to this instability, they turn rancid quickly so keep them fresh by storing in an airtight container in the fridge.
Be cautious with use if you have diverticulitis as flaxseeds can exacerbate this condition.
Ready for some flax? Try our Easy Flaxseed Bread recipe
