Flax Seeds 500 g, 300 g, 100 g, 50 g

Flax Seeds 500 g ($9.99), 300 g ($7.99), 100 g ($5.99), 50 g ($3.99)

Benefits:
Nutrients
Flaxseeds, also known as linseeds, are a great source of fiber and omega-3 fats, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). However, the omega-3 fats are contained within the fibrous outer shell of the seed, which humans can’t digest easily. Therefore, if you want to increase your omega-3 levels, it’s best to eat flaxseeds that have been ground. A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of flaxseeds contains a wide mix of nutrients:

One tablespoon (7 grams [g]) of ground flaxseed contains:

• Calories: 37
• Carbs: 2 g
• Fat: 3 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Thiamine: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Copper: 9% of the DV
• Manganese: 8% of the DV
• Magnesium: 7% of the DV
• Phosphorus: 4% of the DV
• Selenium: 3% of the DV
• Zinc: 3% of the DV
• Vitamin B6: 2% of the DV
• Iron: 2% of the DV
• Folate: 2% of the DV

Flaxseed is particularly high in thiamine, a B vitamin that plays a key role in energy metabolism and cell function. It’s also a great source of copper, which is involved in:

• brain development
• immune health
• iron metabolism

Flaxseed is an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid important for heart health and found primarily in plant foods.

A 2020 review suggests that omega-3s, including ALA, may help reduce inflammation and prevent the buildup of fat in arteries (atherosclerosis). A recent study of 8,866 people tied increased ALA intake to decreased cholesterol levels and a lower risk of ischemic heart disease — which is related to narrowed arteries — and type 2 diabetes. One large 2021 review of 34 studies associated increased ALA intake with a decreased risk of death from heart disease.

Living with diabetes?   A tablespoon of ground flaxseed packs 2 g of fiber, around 5% and 8% of the daily recommended intake for men and women, respectively.

Flaxseed contains two types of fiber — soluble and insoluble — which your beneficial gut bacteria feed on to support gut health and improve bowel regularity. Soluble fiber absorbs water in your intestines and slows digestion, which may help regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels and lower cholesterol. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool, which may prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements.

Flaxseeds also contain a number of different polyphenols, especially lignans, which act as important antioxidants in the body. Lignans, as well as the fiber and omega-3 fats in flaxseeds, can all help reduce cholesterol and other risk factors for heart disease.

One large study combined the results of 28 others, finding that consuming flaxseeds reduced levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol by an average of 10 mmol/l. Flaxseeds may also help reduce blood pressure. An analysis of 11 studies found that flaxseeds could reduce blood pressure especially when eaten whole every day for more than 12 weeks. A couple of studies have shown that eating flaxseeds may reduce markers of tumor growth in women with breast cancer, and may also reduce cancer risk. This may be due to the lignans in flaxseeds. Lignans are phytoestrogens and are similar to the female sex hormone estrogen.

Similar benefits have been shown regarding prostate cancer in men.

In addition to reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer, flaxseeds may also help reduce blood sugar, which may help lower the risk of diabetes.

Fiber  Flaxseed is loaded with fiber, packing around 2.5 grams into a single tablespoon (9 grams) (17).

Some research suggests that adding more fiber to your diet could protect against a range of conditions, including breast cancer (18). According to one large review of 20 studies, higher total fiber intake was associated with an 8% lower risk of developing breast cancer in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women (19). Another review of 24 studies showed that each 10-gram increase in daily fiber intake was associated with a 4% lower risk of breast cancer (20). An analysis of seven studies reported that higher fiber intake may significantly improve survival in people with breast cancer (21).

However, keep in mind that flaxseed oil does not contain fiber, so it may not offer the same fiber-related benefits as ground or whole forms of flaxseed (22).

Phytoestrogens (Lignans)  Flaxseed is high in lignans, a compound found naturally in a variety of food sources, including seeds (1). Lignans are considered phytoestrogens, meaning that they mimic the effects of estrogen in the body but are substantially weaker (1). Phytoestrogens may be particularly beneficial for the prevention of breast cancer, as some studies show that they could help block estrogen synthesis and metabolism to slow cancer cell growth (2, 3).

According to one study in over 400 people, increased consumption of lignans was associated with a lower risk of breast cancer (4).

Another 2012 study had similar findings, reporting that women who consumed the highest amount of lignans had 40–50% lower odds of breast cancer compared with those who consumed the lowest amount (5). However, whether or not the lignan content of flaxseed could aid in cancer prevention remains controversial, as other studies have turned up mixed results (1, 6, 7). Therefore, more studies are needed to understand the effects of lignan-rich foods, such as flaxseed, on cancer development. owever, for those diagnosed with estrogen receptor positive breast cancer, some oncologists recommend against consuming phytoestrogen-containing foods like flaxseed. There is some evidence that these compounds may interact with anti-cancer drugs (8, 9).

It’s best to talk with a healthcare professional before consuming flaxseed if you have a breast canc r diagnosis.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids  Flaxseed and flaxseed oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a type of healthy fat that has been associated with a long list of benefits (10, 11). Though omega-3 fatty acids may be most well-known for their effects on heart health, some research suggests that they could help protect against other conditions like cancer as well (12).

In fact, one review noted that omega-3 fatty acids could improve the effectiveness of some chemotherapy drugs and may help kill off breast cancer cells by blocking a specific pathway involved in cell growth (13). However, omega-3 supplements may interact with some types of chemotherapy agents and other medications that people with cancer often take, such as blood thinners and glucocorticoids, so be sure to talk with a medical professional before consuming (14).

Interestingly, one review also reported that increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids from foods or supplements could be associated with a 31–50% lower risk of breast cancer in older women, plus a reduced risk of recurrence (15). However, many of these studies focused on the effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are the two active forms of omega-3 fatty acids (16). Flaxseed contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in plant foods that the body converts into DHA and EPA in only limited amounts (16). For this reason, more research is needed to understand how the omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil specifically could affect breast cancer.

Antioxidants  Like other nuts and seeds, flaxseed is a great source of antioxidants, including specific compounds like secoisolariciresinol diglucoside, p-coumaric acid, and ferulic acid (23). Antioxidants can help neutralize harmful free radicals, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative damage to your cells (24). Research also shows that antioxidants can protect against chronic disease and cancer (25).

Interestingly, one review reported that antioxidants could play a key role in the prevention of breast cancer and may even improve the effectiveness of certain therapies used to treat breast cancer (26). On the other hand, another review concluded that antioxidant supplements had no effect on breast cancer prevention, though it’s unclear whether these results also apply to antioxidants obtained from food sources (27). Thus, we need more high quality studies to understand how the antioxidants found in flaxseed specifically may affect breast cancer.

Cancer  Flaxseed is rich in lignans, plant compounds studied for their potent cancer-fighting properties.

A 2018 literature review associates flaxseed intake with a lower risk of breast cancer, particularly for postmenopausal women. Animal and test-tube studies also show flaxseed to protect against cancers of the:

• colon
• skin
• blood
• lung

Research in humans is needed to determine if the effects are the same. ultiple older studies have found that flaxseed consumption could be associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer (28, 29, 30). That association could be due to a combination of factors, including flaxseed’s fiber, lignan, antioxidant, or omega-3 fatty acid content. However, though many of the individual components of flaxseed could be beneficial, consuming it shouldn’t be considered a quick fix to prevent breast cancer. A variety of factors can contribute to breast cancer development, including your age, genetics, medical history, lifestyle, and overall diet (31). For best results, flaxseed and flaxseed oil should be incorporated into a healthy, well-rounded diet and paired with a variety of other nutrient-dense foods.

Cholesterol  Flaxseed may help lower cholesterol levels.

A research review of 31 randomized controlled trials found that flaxseed may have a beneficial effect on LDL (bad) cholesterol and total cholesterol (TC) in people with high LDL or lipid levels. A 2021 randomized clinical trial of people with high blood pressure had similar findings — 4 tablespoons (30 g) of flaxseed per day led to significant reductions in:

• body mass index (BMI)
• total cholesterol
• blood pressure

Flaxseed’s fiber content may explain these effects. Fiber binds to bile salts before your body releases them. To replenish these bile salts, your liver pulls cholesterol from your blood, resulting in lower levels.

Blood Pressure  Flaxseed is renowned for its ability to decrease blood pressure levels. A 2021 randomized clinical trial found that while a placebo increased both types of blood pressure, flaxseed supplementation of 30 g over 12 weeks was associated with a:

• 13.36-unit decrease based on the study results in systolic blood pressure
• 5.6-unit decrease based on the study results in diastolic blood pressure

Blood Sugar  Flaxseed may stabilize blood sugar levels and help manage blood sugar.

According to a 2018 review of 25 studies, whole flaxseed may decrease blood sugar and prevent insulin resistance. This blood-sugar-lowering effect may be due to flaxseed’s soluble fiber content.

A 2020 research review of 29 randomized controlled trials shows that soluble fiber slows the absorption of sugar in the blood, which may reduce blood sugar levels. As such, flaxseed may be particularly helpful if you have type 2 diabetes.

The benefits of flaxseed for blood sugar management apply mostly to whole flaxseed rather than flaxseed oil because flaxseed oil lacks fiber.

Weight Loss  Several studies suggest that flaxseed may aid weight management.

A 12-week study published in 2022 had 108 participants consume flaxseed hulls (mucilage) twice daily while following a low calorie diet. Results show that 68% and 46% of the 2 flaxseed groups saw at least a 5% reduction in weight.

Only 9% of participants in the placebo group saw weight loss. This is likely because soluble fiber slows digestion and increases feelings of fullness, which may be especially useful if you’re trying to lose weight.

Botanical Name: Linum usitatissimo
Common Name: Flax seeds
English: Linseed
Ayurvedic: Atasi, Umaa, Masrnaa Nilapushpi, Kahumaa
Also, known as: Alshi, Arasa, Alsi Agasebeeja, Semeagare, Agasi, Katan, Avisa, Ali, Virai, Atushi, Uma Kauma, Tisi, Tusi, Masina, Agastha, Agasi, Cheru charm. Atshi, Sirrali, Flachs, Lin, Lino usuale, Hu-ma-esze, Tesimosina, Bazen
Habitat: Uncertain (It has been cultivated from before recorded history)
Origin: India
Harvested: Cultivated
Parts Used: Seed

General Information:
It has been cultivated in all temperate and tropical regions for so many centuries that its geographical origin cannot be identified.

Linum usitatissimum is an erect annual herb, growing to 2 feet by 1 feet Seed small, brown, glossy with the minutely pitted surface, about 4-6 mm long and 2-2.5 mm in maximum width, flattened, rounded at one end, and obliquely pointed at the other. The flowers have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Insects. The plant is self fertile. Flax blossoms have five petals and are usually blue, but can also be bright red After the flowers have died flax bears a fruit that in round dry capsule less than a centimeter in diameter. Each capsule contains several seeds that resemble small apple seeds.

Flax seeds are one of the world’s renowned superfoods. These seeds are very nutritious and helping in several health conditions. They are very rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids. Flax seeds also contain a good amount of dietary fiber and Limnanthes seeds, which are high in fiber and mucilage, absorb large amounts of fluid and draw out toxins when ingested and act as a gentle bulking laxative. The seeds are used whole or crushed. Linseed varies much in size and tint – a yellowish variety occurring in India Holland, Russia, the United States, Canada, Argentina, and India furnish the principal supplies. Flaxseed oil is extracted by pressing the seeds. Only cold-pressed oil is used as food and herbal medicine. Flaxseed oil is well-known for its high content of essential fatty acids. These fatty acids are only accessible if the seeds are split prior to ingestion.

Throughout history, flax has been used to maintain the health of animals Farmers have reported that pregnant cows fed flaxseed gave bat h to healthier calves. When flax seeds are added to the diets of pets, the Bar coat improves.

Flax is grown for its oil, used as a nutritional supplement, and as an ingredient in many wood finishing products. Flax is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens Flax fibers are used to make linen. The Latin species name species means “most useful”.

 

How to use:
We make these suggestions to help you get the best benefit from the herbs that you’re choosing to improve your health. Also we make these ideas and recommendations so that consuming them easier and better fit into your lifestyle by adding them to the food that you already eat.
For the full health benefit, it is best to consume (or use the whole herb in poultices) the whole herb. All of the compounds in the herb act best together, as nature intends. Extracts draw out the most prominent beneficial compounds and may concentrate them. What is not extracted can be helpful in ways that we do not yet understand.

Cut Pieces or Powdered Herb:
There are different ways to use cut pieces or powdered herb.
Food Preparation: You can add powdered or pieces of herb (if the pieces you buy are bigger than you like, a coffee or herb grinder will quickly reduce) to any yogurt, smoothie, apple or other sauces, spreads, salads or other foods more familiar to you that don’t use heat. Heat can be damaging to the beneficial compounds in the herb. Other options like oatmeal, scrambled eggs, pasta sauce, soup, cookies and anything else that fits your lifestyle, but minimizing (by adding near the end of cooking) the heat is helpful.
Also, for children, you can mix powdered herb with honey or glycerin to make paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help medicine go down. The resulting liquid is called an electuary.
For seeds in general, but especially small seeds, it’s best to grind these to break the protective hulls a short time before consumption. This makes all the benefits available, rather than some remaining locked inside the hulls that are unbroken by insufficient chewing.
To make adding herbs even easier, you could add a week’s worth of your chosen herb(s) to an amount of, for example, yogurt that you would eat in a week. Mix thoroughly and eat this each day of the week. SO you make once /week and just eat each other day.
Hot Infusion: The basic method for dried herbs and flower is, take 2-3 tablespoons of dried herb in a cup or teapot. Pour hot water over it and cover it with lid for 10-30 minutes. The heat from making tea can degrade some of the beneficial compounds in the herb. This method minimizes this effect. For the full health benefit, it is recommended to consume what is left over after making tea.
Decoctions: Decoctions are suitable for roots, barks, large seeds & berries, and other dense material. The simple way to make decoction is, in a saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs to 1 cup of water, Bring the water to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30-60 minutes with the pot covered. Squeeze out as much as liquid as possible. Best practice is to drink the liquid and also consume the solid material that remains. Herb pieces can also be used.
Powdered Herb:
There are different ways to use powdered herb.
Capsules: HerbsCrafters makes capsules guaranteed to be filled with the pure herb with no filler or any other products. You can also use powdered herb to make your own capsules at home. These capsules are best taken with liquid to aid in digestion and absorption and to ensure it doesn’t stick in your throat.
Poultice: Poultice can be made with an herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.
Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot.

Tips:
You can sweeten your herbal decoctions with bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder or licorice root powder.

Precautions:
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY.
This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.