Flax seed is one of the most ancient crops in the world. Flax seed is known for its rich nutrient-content. Benefits of flax seeds are widely known by nutrition experts and more and more people have now started consuming flax seeds as a part of their routine.
Roasted brown flax seeds
Flax seed is also known in many parts of the world as linseed. Flax seeds in hindi are called alasi. Several studies have been conducted to find out the benefits of linseed and such studies have suggested that flax seeds have components that have the capability to fight against several types of cancers. Flax seeds can help against breast cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer and colon cancer. Additionally, flax seeds belong to the Linaceae family. Flax seeds provide several other health benefits as they contain high amounts of fiber, antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids. Alasi is available in two basic varieties — brown flax and golden flax (which are also called yellow flax).
Nutritional Composition of Flax seeds/ linseeds:
Before we see the benefits of Flax seeds, let us first take a look at its nutritional composition.
| Amount per 100 Gms of Flax seeds (Source: USDA National Nutrient data base) | ||
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
| Calories | 534 | – |
| Carbohydrates | 29 g | 9 % |
| Total Fat | 42 g | 64 % |
| Polyunsaturated fat | 29 g | – |
| Saturated fat | 3.7 g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated fat | 8 g | – |
| Proteins | 18 g | 36 % |
| Dietary Fiber | 27 g | 108 % |
| Calcium | 25mg | 2 |
| Potassium | 813 mg | 23 % |
| Cholesterol | Nil | 0 |
| Sodium | 30 mg | 1% |
| Iron | 5.7 mg | 31 % |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie reference diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower based on your individual calorie needs.
If you are wondering about its fats content, You would have noticed that the majority of fat comes from poly unsaturated fats.
Benefits of Flax seeds on Weight loss
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One of the best known benefits of Flax seeds is that it helps in weight loss. Flax seed is a great functional food. It is low in carb and has high amount of essential amino acids. Flax seeds supports in weight loss by keeping you full for longer. It stabilizes the blood sugar levels and helps in avoiding the insulin spikes in the blood. You can mix flax seeds in your smoothies , or add freshly ground flax seeds powder in your rotis , breads and other vegetable preparations.
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Benefits of Flax seeds on Health
Let us know see the detailed benefits of flax seeds on various aspects of health.
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• Benefits of flax seeds in Detoxification :
Flax seeds are rich in phyto-chemicals and Antioxidants. There is an estrogen-like chemical compound present in the flax seeds. This compound helps in removing the free radicals in the body. Alasi is rich in lignin. Lignin promotes fertility and reduces pre-menopausal syndromes. In addition, Flax seeds possess strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This helps in protecting the internal organs against pneumonia. The antioxidant properties also helps in preventing type 2 diabetes, asthma, obesity and metabolic syndrome.
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• Benefits of flax seeds in digestion :
Flax seeds helps in improving Digestive Health. Flax seeds are abundant in mucilaginous fiber. these fiber promotes intestinal absorption of nutrients. Also, the soluble and insoluble fiber present in flax seeds improves the movement of food through the intestines. This helps in regularizing the bowel movements.
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• Benefits of flax seeds in prevention of Cancer:
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Several studies have been conducted in the recent years to study the cancer prevention benefit of linseed. Studies have revealed that flax seeds can certainly lower the risk of developing breast, colon and prostate cancer. The antigenic properties in flax seeds prevent the formation of tumors in new blood cells. Omega-3 fatty acid and ALA inhibit tumor incidence and prevent the growth and spread of cancer. Studies have also concluded that consumption of flax seeds can increase the survival rate of breast cancer patients. Alasi supports the detox process which further helps in preventing the accumulation of toxins that might otherwise act as carcinogens and increase cancer risk. Additionally, a diet rich in flax seeds is also said to protect skin tissue from radiation which, in turn, prevents skin cancer. The antioxidant properties of flax seeds fight free radicals and the damage caused due to sun exposure.
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• Flax seeds are helpful in preventing Cardiovascular Disease:
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Regular intake of flax seeds in diet can help in preventing the hardening of arteries. The amino acids and Omega-3 fatty acids present in flax seeds help in lowering the blood pressure levels in the body. Additionally, linseeds prevent the deposition of plaque in the arteries . It prevents the white blood cells from sticking to the blood vessel’s inner linings. Irregular heartbeat can also be prevented by consuming flax seeds regularly. Flax seeds also contain alpha linolenic acid which protects blood vessels from inflammatory damage.
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• Benefits of Flax seeds in lowering Cholesterol levels in the blood:
Research has shown that consumption of flax seeds on a daily basis can significantly reduce cholesterol level.Flax seeds contain a wonderful combination of fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids, and lignin. These nutrients work together to fight cholesterol. Additionally, flax seeds also increase the density of lipo-protein in the blood stream reducing the risk of heart diseases, obesity and metabolic syndrome.
•Benefits of Flax seeds in fighting Inflammation:
Deficiency of Omega-3 fatty acids causes inflammation in the body. The abundance of Omega-3 fatty acids in flax seeds blocks the release of pro-inflammatory agents. This helps in fighting inflammation.
• Benefits of Flax seeds in Diabetes:
Alasi can help control diabetes too. Flax seeds contain lignan. Lignan-rich food stabilizes blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Hence, daily consumption of linseed is very important if you are suffering from diabetes. Several researches have revealed that there were significant drops in insulin resistance among those who consumed flaxseeds for 12 weeks. This can be attributed to high antioxidant levels in flax seeds.
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• Benefits of Flax seeds in treatment of Hot Flashes:
Linseed manages pre-menopausal and post-menopausal symptoms efficiently. Consuming 2 tablespoons of ground flax seeds serves as a treatment for reducing hot flashes.
Flax seeds benefits health in various ways . Benefits of flax seeds are not restricted to only health. Flax seeds when consumed on a regular basis also improves the well being of skin and hair. Let us see the benefits of flax seeds on skin and hair in details.
Benefits of Flax seeds on Skin and Hair:
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Many skin care products like moisturizers, sunscreens and even shower gels contain flax seed oil. This is because flax seeds and its oil contain several nutrients that help in improving skin health.
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Prevents skin disease :
Lignans and Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in preventing various types of skin disease. High levels of lignans and Omega-3 fatty acids promote the growth and development of healthy skin cells.
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Helps in keeping the skin hydrated:
Flax seeds promotes the glow on your skin. This is possible because flax seeds helps in reducing the levels of Dihydro – testosterone (DHT) in the body. Flaxseeds can be the best moisturizer for your skin. If you are you looking to keep your skin hydrated and delaying the onset of wrinkles, Flax seeds is the solution. Essential fatty acids present in flax seeds, keep the skin moisturized and hydrated.
Dry skin may lead to conditions such as eczema and psoriasis while promoting the signs of aging. Taking linseeds regularly leads to the enhancement of the body’s natural oil production and helps in keeping the skin baby soft. Linseed oil prevents irritants from entering the pores and this way, it acts as an anti-aging agent.
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• Promotes Skin Healing:
If you are looking for a remedy that works best for skin irritation, rashes, inflammation and redness, make sure to add flax seeds to your cart when you shop for food. Flax seeds reduce the possibilities of acne, psoriasis and dermatitis and works best on healing wounds at a greater speed.
• Prevents Male Baldness:
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Not many natural remedies can treat male baldness effectively. But, flax seeds provide effective solution to hair loss issues in men.
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• Reduces Dandruff:
Regular intake of flax seeds reduces dandruff, eczema and other scalp conditions. Flaxseeds stimulate the production of sebum in the scalp, which prevents flaking and dandruff.
• Prevents Hair Breakage:
Consumption of flax seeds increases your intake of omega-3 fatty acids which further increases hair elasticity. This makes your hair less prone to breakage. So if you are looking to get stronger hair, make sure to add flax seeds in your diet.
Note:
Flax seed oil is perishable and hence it should be purchased in opaque bottles that have been kept refrigerated. You can also add flax seed oil to foods after they have been cooked. Life’s vital force is trapped in seeds and you can help in the release of this force and its karmic circulation through a way of life that embraces healthy eating. Enjoy the benefits of flax seeds.
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i have purchased flex seed but i dont know how to take it .
Hi ,
You can mix flax seeds in your smoothies , or add freshly ground flax seeds powder in your rotis , breads and other vegetable preparations. you can also dry roast these flax seeds and mix them with some roasted fennel seeds (saounf) and munch on it after every meal.
taking 1 spoonful of dry roasted flax seeds early in the morning on empty stomach has proven to be very beneficial for health.
I want to lose weight…whether i have yo take brown flax seed or golden…how should i take? How much quantity should I take and at what time?
Hi Arshiya ,
brown ones are good . you can take 1-2 tsp of roasted flax seeds early morning on empty stomach .
is there any side effects of flax seeds? Whats the quantity as per day basis?
Hi Rana,
nothing if you eat it in moderation . you can have 1 table spoon (15 – 20 gms) everyday .
Flaxseeds do work for weight loss. i have lost about 20lbs just using flaxseeds and husks. It also helps with constipation. Remember that flaxseed oil is different from the actual flaxseeds. including flaxseeds in your meals helps as well.
Hi Mam
I want to reduce my breast size and i read at so many places that Flaxseed can help. I purchased the flaxseed but i m confused how to consume it.
Kindly advice me how to consume Flaxseed.
Can i consume it by first roasting it n then grinding and having 1 spoon daily with Hot water?
Or any other best method you can advice.
Revert asap.
you can roast it in a kadai and chew on it like saunf (fennel seeds). after each meal . this is the most palatable and best way to intake flex seeds
hi mam,in how many months should i loose weight by consuming flax seeds daily
Hi Tanveer ,
weight loss is not about only eating flax seeds … yes flax seeds do help in weight loss, but you will have to practice an over all healthy lifestyle , do a 45 mins workout every day , and eat the limited amount of calories , if you are doing this bit and also taking flax seeds , then in that case flax seeds will help you speed up our weight loss and also take care of your health … you would lose your weight at the rate of 2-3 kgs in a month if you are doing it right .
hi mam,please say me how to consume flax seeds
you can roast them and consume early in the morning on empty stomach . you can also ground them and add them to your chapati flour , gravies or milkshakes too .
hi mam,
We can consume the flaxseed in powder form at empty stomach in the morning. Is it beneficial or not and if yes pls suggest the quantity.
yes it is , bit you dont need to powder it , you can just roast it and chew on it like we chew fennel seeds .. it will taste like til. yes it is beneficial . you can take 1-2 tsp of it .
I have type2 diabetes how can I take flax seed to help me to control my sugar
you can roast flax seeds and chew 1 tsp of it after each meal . there are other ways like making a powder and adding to your chapati flour. but roasting it and chewing it is most convenient in my opinion.
I got a new habit of munching flax seed everytime.. unroasted flax seeds. minimum 4 or 5times per day I am chewing these seeds. is that bad?
Hi ,
It is ok , but if you roast the flax seeds it will be much more beneficial.
We can consume flaxseed in ground form with warm water and honey at empty stomach in the early morning for weight loss.it is beneficial or not.
yes you can have it this way .
Hi mam flaxseed or fenugreek which one is better for weightloss?
use both
Hello
I have a problem of condromelesia patella. My trainer has suggested me to consume flex seeds.
I want to loose weight n also consume for the betterment of my knees.
Can u pls s uggsst when how n which flex seeds should I take 🙂
take roasted flax seeds early in the morning on empty stomach with a glass of warm water
Hiii Mam
I dont want to loose my weight,so want to confirm if i consume flex seeds than would i lose my weight
If not so can i continue using flex seeds in my diet
If yes than how when n how much to consume.
One mire thing will it is beneficial to gain weight or not.pls let me know
Hi Dolly ,
yes you can have it , you will lose weight only if you are doing other things to lose weight. have 1 tsp roasted early in the morning on empty stomach. to gain weight have other nuts and seeds like cashewnut , pista etc
Thank you for your kind response.
I have heavy hair fall can flax seed control it
to stop hair fall , apply onion juice on your scal every day , within 2 weeks you will see results .
Flax seeds if I have shall I have hair growth where I have baldness
depends upon the reason of baldness … treating the underlying cause will help in treating baldness
Madam iam diabetes patients recently 6month i suffering l already loss my weight 10kg in last 4months and madam if I consuming flax seed again I loosing my weight? n madam now I don’t want loose my weight please suggestion me what can I do?
Hi Rajendra ,
no dont worry , these foods are super foods and they function in a way our body needs .. flax seeds help in weight loss when they are coupled with other things that help in eight loss. its main role in improving health is owing to its omega fatty acid contents that helps in improving cardiac health .
Madam,
i am 45 and i am 107 kg weight i tried my level best o control my weight below 100 but failed
i request you to propose an diet which is practically possible and result oriented in 2 months i have to go down below 100
i ply badmiton 1 hr daily /
Thank you for reading at Dietburrp. Walking or exercising for 45 mins everyday will help you in a good way to lose weight. along with the exercise you also need follow a healthy regime. You can find some basic and important tips for weight loss in this article here – http://www.dietburrp.com/top-10-weight-loss-tips/ if you want me to analyse your regime and plan a diet plan personalized for you, please see this page. – http://www.dietburrp.com/diet-services/
Or You can try following the diet plan mentioned above in the article.- http://www.dietburrp.com/indian-diet-plan-for-weight-loss/ this is a general 1200 calorie diet plan and has helped many. it may be of help to you as well.
Hi i am deepika
I had gain 20 kgs during my pregency but after 1 1/2 years of delivery i am still over weight.my age is 24 and i am 63 kg,i had a c-section,and my tummy still looks as i am 7 months pregnant still.i want to reduce my tummy fat and my overall weight.plz suggest me a diet plan,and how can i reduce my tummy fat.
https://www.dietburrp.com/how-to-lose-tummy-fat/
Hello mam,
I am 27 and weighs 72 kgs. I have my wedding lined up in next year. I dont eat much but still gains weight might be due to my bad metabolism. Please do suggest me how can I consume flax seeds to reduce weight fast.
Hi Parul , you can have 1-2 tsp of roasted flax seeds on empty stomach in the morning . you can also mix roasted flax seeds with saunf and sesame seeds and little ajwain and keep it as a mouth freshner .. chew on a tsp of this after every meal .
I cannot digest fatty foods like cheese & butter, if eaten leads to constipation. Can eating flax seeds set right my liver
Hi Ravi ,
yes flax seeds will help . Do you suffer from fatty liver ? what is the diagnosis ?
I am a diabetic since 20yrs. Someone on YouTube has shown a video that banana, milk, flax seeds and dalchini powder can be mixed in a mixer and can be taken for breakfast for diabetes. Can I?
Hi Mabel .
well if your sugar levels are in control then you can take it .. if your pp blood sugar is above 180 mg / dl , avoid any fruit juice…
Can we have flax seeds daily twice? if yes when is the best time.
yes you can . once early in the morning and anytime after meal
I want to cleanse or detoxify my body. So can I soak flaxseed fenugreek and fennel overnight and consume it daily morning . Would it help? and I don’t want to lose weight
yes it will help .