Extracted from the flax plant (Linum Usitatissimum), the seed known as linseed is considered as the miraculous seed as it provides a wide variety of benefits for human health, including improving digestion and metabolism, controlling cholesterol levels and contributing to weight loss, among many more.
These are the reasons why the consumption of linseed has been increasing nowadays, especially since it is highly recommended by nutritionists as a natural alternative to enjoy good health.
Originally from the Middle East, the flax plant is cultivated in various parts of the world, specifically in mild regions. But the seeds that come from Canada are the most famous since the climate of this country improves its content and gives it higher levels of oils and Omega 3 fatty acids.
In linseed there are large concentrations of fatty acids and oils such as Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9, as well as dietary fiber, which undoubtedly make it a highly healthy food source. And for our benefit, the ways in which it can be consumed are varied, such as smoothies, juices, bread, salads, desserts and even dishes that contain chicken or fish. So, if after knowing this information you have not decided to try it yet, then we will give you some more reasons to reconsider:
1- It acts as a supplement for weight loss and helps fight constipation: A study published in the Journal of Nutrition concluded that flaxseeds can support weight loss. Its excellent action to stimulate weight loss is due to the plant fibers present in it, which produce a feeling of satiety, thus reducing the constant appetite.
Also, due to its dietary fiber content, the intestinal lump increases and the intestinal transit period decreases. So a good idea would be to include its consumption in the daily diet, and with it we would not only control our weight, but we would be regulating intestinal function and minimizing constipation.
In addition, by digesting linseed we are helping to protect intestinal microbiota, a group of good bacteria that are in the intestine and that allow us to absorb nutrients more easily and synthesize certain compounds such as vitamin K and some of the B complex.
2- It helps to regulate cholesterol and care for the heart: Another great benefit registered with its intake is the control of bad cholesterol, which is responsible for forming plaques that clog arteries causing heart attacks as the soluble fibres of linseed prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the blood, facilitating its elimination by natural means since the cholesterol and fat present in the digestive system adhere to its fiber and this prevents the body from absorbing them.
There are studies that show the hypocholesterolemic effects in terms of reduction of total circulating cholesterol between 6% and 11%. These properties are effective if we make a change in lifestyle, accompanied by exercise and a balanced diet that includes linseed.
3- It prevents several inflammatory diseases: Linseed contains linolenic acid, which is ideal for minimizing the presence of diseases such as gastritis, arthritis and colitis, among many others, so people tend to add it to their favorite food preparations, making it part of of their daily life.
4- It increases vitality and energy: Its intake progressively increases energy levels, and generates an exchange of fats for energy through a constant stimulation process, which is the reason why the muscles tend to recover quickly after long days of physical activity; all that encourages the burning of fat that later influences in a slim body and a healthy organism.
5- Linseed is full of antioxidants and is an ally for the skin: It is known that these seeds contain a mixture of various vitamins, including vitamins K, C and E, but mostly those belonging to group B, such as folic acid or B9. All of them work as natural antioxidants to fight free radicals, that is, they contribute to slowing down the body’s aging process and improving the appearance of hair, nails and skin.
If consumed regularly in the diet or used topically, it also helps to fight acne and can improve skin texture in conditions such as psoriasis, spots, eczema, and peeling.
As for minerals, it contains iron, potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus; essential nutrients for our body to carry out its various functions and enjoy good health.
Linseed is a seed that contains as many qualities as benefits for the body, so its consumption is largely positive for health in general. If you have not tried it yet, it is time to start enjoying all the good things that the miraculous seed has to offer.
ALFA