Flaxseed is very healthy for humans. Research has proven that eating ground flaxseed can help:
- Lower cholesterol
- Protect against heart disease
- Lower the risk of breast and prostate cancers
- Improve blood sugar control
- Improve digestive health
- Reduce inflammation
- Reduce hot flashes in menopausal women
This is because flaxseed contains the following nutritional properties:
- Omega 3 fats
- Soluble fibre
- Insoluble fibre
- Antioxidants
- Phytoestrogens
- High-quality protein
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The major component of flax is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which heads the omega-3 fatty acid family and is associated with health in infants and adults.
Research has shown that levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the modern human diet are historically low in comparison to those of omega-6 fatty acids.
Research has shown that the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can play a big role in heart health. This is why there is growing interest in using flaxseed as a source of omega-3 fatty acids in the human diet.
Health Canada Claims
In 2014, Health Canada approved a health claim linking ground whole flaxseed to blood cholesterol lowering, a major risk factor for heart disease.
The “daily amount” referred to in the claim is 5 Tbsp (75 mL) or 40 g of ground (milled) whole flaxseed consumed over three intakes. For example, “16 g (2 tablespoons/30 mL) of ground flaxseed supplies 40% of the daily amount shown to help lower cholesterol.”
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