The flax (linus usitatissimus), which means 'flax the most useful'. It is an annual herbaceous plant that can reach 1,5 meters. The root system of flax can be extended to a depth of 1-1,2 meters and has many branches. Its shoot branches off above the ground into two or three shoots. Its leaves are simply lanceolate in shape. Its flowers appear in pits that grow at the ends of the branches. They are hermaphroditic flowers which have 5 petals with a blue color. The fruit is a small, brown or golden color. Flax is grown mainly for its seeds but also for the production of fiber.
Flaxseed Ingredients
Flaxseed is a rich source of fiber and protein, minerals such as manganese, thiamine and magnesium. It is also one of the richest sources of plant omega-3 fatty acids, called alpha-linolenic acid (or ALA). They are the richest source of lignans, anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids along with antioxidants and enhance hormonal balance.
The health benefits of flaxseed
1. Its seeds are full of nutrients
- Flaxseed is rich in mucus gum, a water-soluble fiber that forms a gel and is transported through the gastrointestinal tract. After consuming the food, the gum retains the food in the stomach and increases satiety.
- Flax is low in carbohydrates, but rich in soluble and insoluble fiber.
2. They are high in omega-3 fats
It is a rich source of OA-3 ALA fatty acids. It is a polyunsaturated fatty acid with heart health benefits and is associated with:
- reducing the risk of stroke,
- reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and hypertension,
- improves platelet function,
- treats inflammation,
- enhances the healthy function of endothelial cells and
- protects arterial function, fights arrhythmias.
3. They contain strong antioxidant and estrogenic properties
Flax seeds contain a group of nutrients called lignans, which have powerful antioxidant and estrogenic properties. Lignans are found in unprocessed plant foods, such as whole grains, beans, berries and nuts. Lignans are considered natural "phytoestrogens" and are also known for their anti-viral and antibacterial properties, thus helping to fight viruses.
4. It is a rich source of fiber
Flaxseeds contain two types of dietary fiber - soluble (20-40%) and insoluble (60-80%). With so much fiber concentrated in every tiny seed, adding flaxseed to your diet can improve your digestive health.
5. Flaxseeds can improve cholesterol
Another health benefit of flaxseed is its ability to lower cholesterol levels by increasing the amount of fat secreted through intestinal function.
6. They contain high quality protein
Flaxseed protein is rich in the amino acids arginine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid. So it can be an alternative source of protein for people who do not eat meat.
7. Healthy skin and strong hair
Flaxseed helps hair to shine and be more durable. Ω-3 and flaxseed B vitamins benefit skin and hair, treat dryness and inflammation. They also relieve rosacea - and simple - acne, and any eczema. It also protects the health of the eyes by treating dry eye syndrome.
