Also known as linseed, these tiny bits of fiber crop may not look much but these have lots of positive effects on your health and nutrition.

People believe that you should eat flaxseed to boost their health. Well, they’re not wrong. These are just 8 of the amazing health benefits of the “functional food” that is flaxseed.

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Flaxseeds have the alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based type of omega-3 fatty acid. It is said to improve circulation and has anti-inflammatory effects. According to research, flaxseed may be able to help fight osteoporosis due to reduced risks of bone fractures.

Great source of fiber, protein, and more

Just 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds can provide your body with 10 to 20% of your daily target for several nutrients: Magnesium, which helps improve your mood and sleep, Manganese, which aids in collagen production and promotes skin and bone health, Phosphorus, which helps in forming cell structures and is good for the bones, Copper, which aids in energy and collagen production, and Thiamin, which also helps in energy production and supports the nervous system.

High levels of potent antioxidants

As a good source of polyphenols, which are healthy-protective antioxidants, flaxseeds help protect you from heart disease, cell-damaging oxidative stress, and cancer. It also stops premature aging and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Good for your heart

Blood pressure, artery hardening, bad cholesterol, and strokes are all things that you can lessen or prevent by consuming flaxseed. 

In a study conducted among people with high cholesterol, it was revealed that bad cholesterol was reduced by almost 20% while the total cholesterol went down by more than 15% when they consumed 3 tablespoons of flaxseed powder every day for 3 months.

Aids in the digestion

Flaxseed has both soluble and insoluble fiber. The soluble fiber helps soften the stool and eliminate it easily. Meanwhile, the insoluble fiber stimulates the digestive system and promotes regular bowel movement.

Helps lower risk of cancer…

It has been known that flaxseeds can help prevent the growth of tumors in breast, prostate, and colon cancers. It can also help stop tumors from forming new blood vessels.

…and diabetes, too

Consuming flaxseeds leads to improved levels of HA1C, which is the average blood sugar over 3 months. A small study involving prediabetic people shows that blood glucose and insulin levels can be lowered down through consuming at least 13 grams of flaxseed.

Helps you achieve supple skin

It is said that using flaxseed oil would make your skin less sensitive. It also reduces skin roughness and improves skin hydration and smoothness for that young-looking skin.