Flaxseeds are amazingly beneficial because they are high in fiber but still deficient in carbohydrate content, which is an unusual combination to find. Flaxseeds also contain components that enhance nutrient absorption and make your body healthier even when you do not change much of your eating habits. We have discussed 20 vital benefits of flax seeds. After reading this, you will surely find a place for the wonderful seeds in your kitchen cabinet.
What is Flaxseed? An Introduction to the Plant and Seed
Flaxseeds originate from the flax plant – a broad-leaf plant with small, narrow leaves. The flax plant grows up to around 35 inches high with multiple stems that divide at their tips, bearing attractive blue flowers. Each flower develops into a round seed capsule measuring 2 – 3 cm in diameter, where it produces the flaxseeds. Each capsule contains, on average, 5-6 seeds. The seeds are larger than sesame seeds and protected within a shiny, hard shell. Historically, flaxseeds are brown, but more attractive golden colors are produced to boost consumer appeal.
The flaxseed plant is grown worldwide, and the two central countries responsible for most flax exports are Canada and China. The health benefits of flaxseed are slightly different from the oil because the seed provides extra nutrients that aren’t present in the oil. However, flax oil contains high omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. As you’ll discover in this article, with so many health-promoting nutrients, consuming both the flaxseed and the oil is highly recommended.
Diverse Historical and Modern Uses of Flaxseed
This highly versatile seed is used for several products other than as a food source, and years ago, it was the stable crop of the American farming economy. Before the introduction of cotton, most clothes were made from either wool or linen. The linen fiber from flax stems was a major fiber source fiber for clothes and other fabrics. Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, was used as a natural preservative for wood treatment and is still found in hardware stores today.
The Rise of Flaxseed Popularity
Flaxseed and its uses steadily declined after the Second World War when petroleum became increasingly used, and other crops such as wheat and oats started replacing flaxseed. Since its health properties have been discovered, flaxseed has become popular again, and demand for this super-healthy food is rising. Nutritional benefits aside, natural fiber clothes such as linen are now much sought-after and often preferred over synthetic material.
What Is Whole Flaxseed?
Whole flaxseed is simply the seed as it is cultivated from the pod of the flax plant. It is sold clean and unprocessed or refined in any way. It is cheaper to buy flaxseed this way, and the flaxseeds have a much longer shelf-life. Lots of bread/muffin recipes and similar foods include the addition of whole flaxseed. Their natural, protective shell will keep the kernel fresh for up to a year. If flaxseed is consumed as ‘whole seeds,’ i.e., pre-milled (as you’ll often find on specialty bread), the seeds will generally pass straight through the intestinal tract and out of the body without absorbing any healthy nutrients.
The shell needs to be split for the body to benefit from these nutrients and oils, and the easiest way to do this is through grinding or milling.
Side Effects of Flaxseed
No evidence suggests concerns or possible side effects from eating flaxseed or consuming flax oil. Suppose I tell you to drink more than the recommended amount of flaxseed (a couple of tablespoons daily, or around 30 grams). In that case, you may experience some side effects, especially as flaxseed oil is high in soluble and non-soluble dietary fiber. These symptoms commonly appear as diarrhea or loose stools but are nothing more serious. Pregnant women should naturally be cautious while taking flaxseed oil or any supplement for that matter and always consult with a medical expert.
The information given is for knowledge purposes. We have researched and written the content. We don’t claim any scientific research or recipe.