Flax Seeds Overview
Flax seeds are the seeds of the flax crop which is a fibre crop grown in cooler regions of the world. Flax seeds are reddish-brown or golden yellow. It is often called ‘functional food’.
It is claimed to be one of the crops to be grown in ancient times which is rich in nutrients and is used medicinally in large amounts. Flaxseed is assumed to be originated from Egypt.
Flaxseed is also used to wrap the mummies in Egypt. Its commercial production began in 1750. Flax Seeds were consumed around 6000 years ago which has many healthy effects on the human body.
Flax Seed and only the Fax seed oils are used to produce the medicines whereas all of the flax plants are useful to humanity. Flaxseed is also beneficial for your hair and nails along with your digestive tract problems.
FEATURES
Flaxseed is a dynamic small seed having the following properties
OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS
- Reduces blood clotting
- Reduces risk of stroke
- Reduces inflammation
- Reduce arthritis
- Reduces any autoimmune disease
- Promotes depressants in brain
SOURCE OF FIBER
It is high in fibre both water-soluble and insoluble along with a low amount of carbohydrates.
ANTIOXIDANTS
It reduces cell growth and cell number in both prostate and breast cancer patients.
LIGNANS
It helps to regulate female hormones.
MUCILAGE GUM
It helps to keep food in the stomach which increases nutrient absorption.
VITAMINS
Flax seeds a variety of vitamins some of which are the following
- Thiamine
- Riboflavin
- Niacin
- Vitamin B6
- Pantothenic acid
GLUTEN-FREE
Flax seeds are gluten-free and can be substituted for gluten-containing flour.
PRO’S
Flax Seeds have many benefits with a few being mentioned as under
- It makes your hair glossy.
- Makes your nails stronger.
- It helps to reduce acne, rosacea, and eczema.
- Flaxseed oil moisturizes the skin.
- It helps to reduce breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer.
- It helps to balance the hormones.
- Intake of flax seeds helps to reduce the toxins and helps in soothing the lining of the gut.
- Gives a feeling of fullness helping in dieting.
- Flaxseed balances the level of cholesterol in the body.
- Flax seeds can be replaced for a female hormone therapy due to its effective component of lignin.
- Flax seeds consumption lowers the risk of osteoporosis.
- Reduces the amount of plaque on arteries
- Reduces blood pressure
- The use of flax seeds improves the functioning of kidneys.
- There is a lower chance of people using flax seeds
CON’S
- If consumed in greater amounts Flax seeds may lead to many health hazards which are the following
- The omega fatty acids present in the flax seeds may cause an increase in bleeding as these compounds inhibit the aggregation of blood platelets leading to a more time-consuming healing process if these are consumed in larger amounts.
- The increased consumption of flax seeds can also lead to a greater amount of blood loss.
- Flax seeds increased usage can also cause a mineral deficiency in many people.
- Flax seeds have a laxative effect on the human body.
Overconsumption of flax seeds may cause
- Bloating
- Stomach ache
- Nausea
- Constipation
CONCLUSION
Flax seeds have many benefits and help to regulate the hormones and minerals balance in the body. Flax seeds if used according to the prescribed dosage can be useful for the human body however flax seeds intake is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. Flax seeds are used in the form of hair gels and hair oils even taken orally for better body metabolism. Flax seeds if taken as per the doctor’s advice can be beneficial whereas if consumed in larger amount can be harmful. Concluding here always consume any product carefully and as per your doctor’s recommendation.