All About Flax Seeds, Alsi Seeds

 Flax seed also called alsi seed or linseed is a small goldish brown colored seed having an earthy aroma. Flax seed is not a new wonder food but was cultivated in ancient Egypt and China. There are some pieces of evidence that it may help reduce the risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease and also help maintain a healthy weight.

Health Benefits Of Flax Seeds

1. Improve Blood Sugar And  May Help Manage Diabetes

Research have shown that when diabetics are subjected to consuming one tablespoon of flax seed powder on daily basis for a month, a significant drop in fasting blood sugar was observed. 

Flax seeds are also found to improve  insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes.

2. May Help Regulate Blood Pressure

If you want to manage high blood pressure organically, flax seeds may be the best option for you.

Flax seed is considered a very potent cholesterol_ lowering and antihypertensive herb that helps you maintain your blood pressure along with other heart ailments.

3.  Manage Some Cancers

Lignans, which are phytoestrogens are abundant in flax seeds and are found to have some beneficial anti _ cancerous properties, particularly for breast cancer.

4. Helps Solving Constipation Issues

Being rich in fiber content flax seeds are the best choice if you are suffering from constipation.

5. May Help With Wight Loss

Flax seeds are full of healthy fats and fiber to give you a feeling of fullness, reduce your cravings, and thus help you in losing weight

6. Great For Women's Health

Regular consumption of this magic seed can help you tackle irregular, painful periods. Flax seeds are also proven to help reduce menopausal symptoms.

7. Significantly Improves Both Skin And Hairs

Flax seeds are full of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E. Both of these ingredients are significantly helpful in improving hair and skin texture.

Flax seeds gel prepared by boiling flax seeds in water is the best moisturizer for your skin and hair.

                       

How To Consume Flaxseeds?

 Flaxseeds can be incorporated into your diet in a variety of ways. You can use flaxseed oil or flaxseed powder but consuming the seeds as a whole is difficult to digest.

Flaxseed Oil.

 If you are using its oil you can't be benefitted from its fiber content though oil is rich in ALA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid. So, it's better to use oil along with the powder form.

The best way of consuming oil is that you can substitute your regular cooking oil with flaxseed oil or at least mix it in your regular cooking oil. In this way, it will become part of your daily diet.

Flaxseed Powder

Flaxseed powder can be used in a variety of ways. Here are a few simple ideas to up your flaxseed intake:

• Spoon into your yogurt or smoothie
• Incorporate it into your baking
• Sprinkle over your salads
• Mix it into your morning oatmeal

But keep in mind not to consume more than 3 tablespoons a day. taking one tablespoon on daily basis is the best option.

Flaxseeds, being thermogenic in nature, can create issues if consumed in larger proportions so you have to adjust their dose according to your body.

Possible Side Effects Of Flaxseeds

Raw flaxseeds may contain few toxins, so, it's better to toast them before grinding. Secondly, limit your dose to a minimum.

 The daily recommended dose is 1 to 4 tablespoons, but we recommend, it's better to consume not more than 1 tablespoon.

 While trying anything new, the basic rule is to start to consume it in minimum quantity and see how your body is responding to it. 

If your body is accepting it and you don't feel any problem, increase its dose slowly but never cross the upper recommended limit.

Flaxseed is good for your digestive system but only if you are drinking plenty of water. It is a constipation reliever but is consumed with care. high intake can lead to GIT issues like diarrhea.

It's better to avoid flaxseed intake during the following conditions:

1. Pregnancy

  Flaxseeds can disturb your hormones during pregnancy so it's better to avoid their intake during the entire gestation period.

2. Pre and Post-surgery

Flaxseeds can decrease the ability of blood to clot so avoid consuming them a couple of weeks before and after the surgical procedure.

3. Taking Medications

• If you are taking medicines to lower your blood pressure so consume flaxseeds with care and under the guidance of your healthcare provider because flaxseeds also play a role in lowering blood pressure. The combined effect of both can lead to hypotension.
• If you are diabetic and using medicines to maintain your blood sugar levels hence be cautious while taking flaxseeds as they also lower blood sugar.
• It's always a good idea to consult your doctor before eating flaxseeds if you are suffering from any kind of health issue.

How To Use Flaxseed For Weight Loss

Flaxseed helps in reducing weight but keep in mind that it's not a magical herb. You need to consume them with work out and healthier diet.
Flaxseed Drink For Weight Loss

Boil a glass of water, add a teaspoon of flaxseed powder and lemon juice, and mix well. Consume it in the morning or at bedtime.

Flaxseed Tea For Weight Loss

Take 1.5 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Add a teaspoon of flaxseed powder, and boil for 2 to 3 minutes. Add a few green tea leaves and lemon juice. Strain and enjoy after dinner.