Benefits of Flax seeds ( Alasi / Linseeds ) on Weight loss, Health, Skin and Hair

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.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.