"F" is for Flax
Flax is a lovely blue flowered crop that grows rampant in the prairies and is often mistaken as a wildflower. This delicate plant produces tiny seeds that offer a wide variety of terrific health benefits. These health benefits include:
- Soluble fibers, which reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
- Alpha linolenic acid and omega-3 fatty acid to help reduce blood thickness diminishing the chances of blood clots.
- Phytoestrogens, which are similar to human estrogen and can be helpful for women.
- Flax seed has reduced both the number and size of cancerous tumors in women.
Flax seed can be used whole, ground, or in oil forms. Flax seed can be ground in a coffee grinder, pepper grinders, or a flax seed grinder, which can easily be bought online. Whole flax seed offers fiber, which is great for the digestive system and for reducing cholesterol. Grinding flax seed allows the digestive tract to absorb the other available nutrients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and lignans. It is suggested that a combination of both whole and ground flax seed be incorporated into the normal daily diet to get the best health benefits available from flax seed.
Flax seed must be stored properly in all forms. It is extremely sensitive to heat and sunlight. Exposure to either will cause the flax seed to quickly spoil. Store all flax seed in an airtight container in a cool place.
