Flaxseeds, also known as “alsi,” have gained widespread attention in the country due to their numerous health benefits. These seeds have been used for medicinal purposes for many decades, and research supports their effectiveness. A 100-gram serving of ground flax seeds provides 450 kilocalories, 41 grams of fat, 28 grams of fiber, and 20 grams of protein. Despite being high in calories, flaxseeds are low in carbohydrates and contain quality fats. They are rich in B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and manganese. To reap the benefits, it’s advisable to consume flaxseeds in measured quantities. 
These flaxseeds can be had in whole seed form or in grounded/ powdered form. The shelf life of whole flaxseeds is more than that of the powdered flaxseeds. They interact with air and develops rancid flavor. These flaxseeds can also be sprouted and consumed. There are also many different types of preparations made to incorporate flaxseeds into diet.
Flaxseeds are popular for its Omega 3 fatty acid content, phytochemicals and also for high fiber. Omega 3 fatty acid is a daily requirement of one’s diet. So flaxseeds are the easier option to be included in the diet. It can be easily had in the raw form. There are many studies showing the positive effect of flaxseed on the high blood cholesterol in blood. Due to its Omega 3 fatty acid and high fiber it helps is lowering the blood cholesterol and hence it is very much recommended for a hypertensive and heart patient. It also benefits people with breast and prostate cancer. It is also shown to be effective in stabilizing blood sugars in diabetic patients. Apart from diabetes it also works as a laxative and helps in relieving constipation, if consumed with adequate amount of fluids and water.
Flaxseeds are rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants. The lignans in flaxseeds play a role in balancing female hormones and supporting fertility. They are effective in alleviating menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes and night sweats, and can relieve joint pains associated with osteoporosis by promoting lubricating fluid between the bones. Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds have anti-inflammatory properties, making them beneficial for individuals dealing with inflammatory diseases.
Flaxseeds also has its side effects like if taken in excess amount can lead to bowel obstruction( if adequate water not taken along) and can also interfere with some oral medication due to its high fiber content it binds with certain medicines and thereby inhibiting the function of medicine. Raw flaxseeds contain cyanide chemical compounds which are poisonous for consumption, ripe flaxseeds are the choice. So in a day approximately 2 tablespoon (30gms) can be consumed safely and is an effective dose. It is recommended to take medicines 1.5-2hrs before taking flaxseeds. It interacts with drugs like blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormone treatments and medicines for blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.
Flaxseeds can be blended in all the meals. It does not have a very distinct taste so it’s easier to blend with the different recipe and making it more nutritious.
Benefit of flaxseeds and its importance.
Flaxseeds are buzz in the country. Wherever you go people are talking about benefits of flaxseeds. These seeds are been in use since many decades for its medicinal and health purpose. Many researches have been done on the effectiveness of flaxseeds. Flaxseeds are also called as “alsi”.One hundred grams of ground flax seed supplies about 450 kilocalories, 41 grams of fat, 28 grams of fiber, and 20 grams of protein. It is very low in carbohydrate. It is a high calorie food, very low in carbohydrates and has good quality fat so it has to be consumed in measured quantity for best results. Flaxseeds are high in B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, manganese.
These flaxseeds can be had in whole seed form or in grounded/ powdered form. The shelf life of whole flaxseeds is more than that of the powdered flaxseeds. They interact with air and develops rancid flavor. These flaxseeds can also be sprouted and consumed. There are also many different types of preparations made to incorporate flaxseeds into diet.
Flaxseeds are popular for its Omega 3 fatty acid content, phytochemicals and also for high fiber. Omega 3 fatty acid is a daily requirement of one’s diet. So flaxseeds are the easier option to be included in the diet. It can be easily had in the raw form. There are many studies showing the positive effect of flaxseed on the high blood cholesterol in blood. Due to its Omega 3 fatty acid and high fiber it helps is lowering the blood cholesterol and hence it is very much recommended for a hypertensive and heart patient. It also benefits people with breast and prostate cancer. It is also shown to be effective in stabilizing blood sugars in diabetic patients. Apart from diabetes it also works as a laxative and helps in relieving constipation, if consumed with adequate amount of fluids and water.
Flaxseeds are very high in phytochemicals additional to many antioxidants. Lignans present on flaxseeds helps to balance female hormones and also promote fertility. Flaxseeds are also seen to be very effective in overcoming symptoms of menopause. It helps in relieving hot flushes and sweating at night. It also relieves joint pains in case of osteoporosis. It helps to build up the lubricating fluid between the bones. Omega 3 fatty acid is also an anti-inflammatory. So it is also beneficial for patients who are suffering from inflammatory diseases.
Flaxseeds also has its side effects like if taken in excess amount can lead to bowel obstruction( if adequate water not taken along) and can also interfere with some oral medication due to its high fiber content it binds with certain medicines and thereby inhibiting the function of medicine. Raw flaxseeds contain cyanide chemical compounds which are poisonous for consumption, ripe flaxseeds are the choice. So in a day approximately 2 tablespoon (30gms) can be consumed safely and is an effective dose. It is recommended to take medicines 1.5-2hrs before taking flaxseeds. It interacts with drugs like blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormone treatments and medicines for blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.
Flaxseeds can be blended in all the meals. It does not have a very distinct taste so it’s easier to blend with the different recipe and making it more nutritious.
RD Neha Kava
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