Benefits of Flax Seed

Flax seed is very beneficial to a healthy lifestyle and easy to incorporate into meals. The seeds are smaller than sunflower seeds and have a similar taste. Here are a couple of the benefits:
1. Good source of omega fatty acids which are great cancer fighters. Also has an excellent source of protein and fiber.
2. Weight management. Flax seed stabilizes your sugar level and expands five times when ingested. Studies suggest taking flax seed a half hour before a meal can help with weight management and strengthen the immune system.
3. Improved immune function. Flax seed contains linolenic acid and lignans which decrease inflammation and promotes healthy immune functions. Flax seed may be helpful in managing autoimmune and inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and lupus.
4. Affect on hormone levels. The high levels of lignans help normalize the menstrual cycle, manage menopause, lower the risk for osteoporosis, cancer and heart disease.

So the next question is, What are lignans. Lignans are a group of chemical compounds found in plants. They are estrogen-like chemicals and act as anitoxidants.

And how do you incorporate flax seed into your diet? I add about a tablespoon to my smoothies in the morning to get a little crunch. It's also great on peanut butter toast or english muffins. Flax seed can also easily be added to baked items such as breads or cookies. If you use the seed whole, it needs to be chewed in order to get all the nutritional benefits. You can also buy the seeds and grind them into meal. Flax seed does contain a lot of oil so when using in baking, just use a little or cut other fat out.