There's no doubt about it, flaxseeds pack a powerful nutritional punch, so if you haven't tried, they're definitely one to slip into your grocery basket next time your in the supermarket! Sometimes referred to as linseeds, they can easily be incorporated into breakfast, lunch and supper by sprinkling over cereals, soups and salads, or by stirring a couple of tablespoons into a smoothie or shake.
Do note that it's better to use them milled because if allowed to stand in fluids whole, they become pretty slimy which makes it tricky for our bodies to utilise their nutrient value before they slip through our intestines. Not an issue though because when ground their texture and taste resembles digestive biscuits!
The really good thing about eating the raw seeds instead of using their oils too, is that by eating the whole food, they're a great source of:
:: Soluble and insoluble fibre
:: Omega 3 fatty acids
:: Most of the B group vitamins
:: Magnesium
:: Manganese
:: Phytochemicals
:: Lignans ...which are believed to inhibit the growth of tumours
Which means that they provide significant health benefits including:
:: Protection against certain cancers
:: Protection against and management of diabetes
:: Prevention and control of build-up of plaque which can clog arteries and lead to high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease
:: Lowering cholesterol
:: Strengthening bone health
:: Reduction of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions in the body such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and lupus
...and not forgetting:
:: Our bodies need good fat to lose fat, so they're brilliant for weight management
:: Constipated? ...they'll sort that little problem out in a jiffy
:: If you have a happy digestive system, then you'll have better immune strength
So there you have it ...a single ingredient that can upgrade our health almost effortlessly! Do experiment with them and use them just the way you like them, and if you come up with inspirational uses for them, I'd love to hear about it.
Upgrade your health in 2011 ...it's the most proactive form of health insurance!
Sarah Lantry received her training at The Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York City. She works with clients nationally and globally both face-to-face and via telephone consultations who have specific health conditions, weight issues, food addictions and cravings along with those who wish to increase energy, improve general health and immune function.
www.attitudetofood.com | [email protected] | +44 (0)7970 770 771
