Its Latin name -linum usitatissimus, which means “the most useful flax”- says a lot about the enormous importance that flax has had for man for 5,000 years. Derived from the “flax” or “linseed” plant, flax seeds are one of the oldest crops in the world.
Flaxseeds have many beneficial nutrients and their consumption helps to maintain good health in the body. The medicinal properties of flax seeds were known to the ancient Greeks, since Hippocrates, like Theophrastus (5th and 4th centuries), recommended them for the treatment of inflammations.
Flaxseeds are good for weight loss
There are different ways to include flaxseed in a slimming diet, through infusions, shakes or soaked in water. Flaxseeds are an excellent nutritious food for weight loss by shedding a few extra pounds. Next, we explain why.
Flaxseeds contain approximately 530 calories per 100 grams. That is, a tablespoon contains about 52. They are very rich in fiber and omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, carbohydrates, proteins, magnesium, calcium and phytoestrogens.
Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants that can boost metabolism, while the fiber will make you feel fuller (and eat less) and the omega-3 fatty acids reduce your cravings for sugary foods.
flaxseed properties
Digestion: Flaxseed can help with digestive problems such as constipation, thanks to its high fiber content.
Lowers Cholesterol Levels: Flaxseeds have been linked to lowering levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol, which means it can help prevent other health problems, such as heart disease and strokes.
Helps against some types of cancer: Flaxseeds have potential anti-cancer compounds called lignans, which are polyphenols that may help control certain types of cancer, including breast cancer.
Improved insulin sensitivity: Insulin resistance, or the inability to effectively use the hormone insulin to transport glucose into cells, is the hallmark of type 2 diabetes. But one study suggested that whole flaxseed may help with this problem.
How to include flax seeds in your diet to lose weight
When you add flaxseed to other foods, its flavor does not change, but its nutritional properties are enhanced. The body will have more energy and the elimination of fats will be favored.
To include flax seeds in your diet, you can make an excellent tea by adding a tablespoon of flax seeds to about 200 ml of boiling water until a kind of jelly forms.
Alternatively, you can add flaxseeds to smoothies. They are particularly tasty with orange or grapefruit juice. Let the flaxseeds sit in the smoothies for about 5 minutes before drinking.
Finally, the simplest method is to consume flax seeds with water. Pour a tablespoon of ground flax seeds into a glass of water and drink this two to three times a day.