Just the flax!

Flax Seeds

The ancient flax seed, with its high content of alpha linolenic acids, become our modern miracle food. Alpha linolenic acid (ALA) is a type of plant-derived omega 3 fatty acid, similar to those found in fish such as salmon. Benefits of flax seed as shown in many studies include lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (the Bad cholesterol) levels. Other benefits show that flax seed may also help lower blood triglyceride and blood pressure. It may also keep platelets from becoming sticky therefore reducing the risk of a heart attack.

Aside from alpha linolenic acid, flax seed is rich in lignan. Lignan is a type phytoestrogen (antioxidant) and also provides fiber. Researches reveal that lignan in flax seed shows a lot of promise in fighting disease -- including a possible role in cancer prevention especially breast cancer. It is thought that lignan metabolites can bind to estrogen receptors, hence inhibiting the onset of estrogen-stimulated breast cancer.
Recent studies also showed positive benefits of flax seed oil in IBD (Crohn's Disease and Colitis). Flax seed oil seems to be able to heal the inner lining of the inflamed intestines.

Moderately include flax seed in your diet. Indeed, a lot of food products contain flax seed such as bread, cereal and bakery goods. Bakers may use flax seed flour or include flax seed in baking.

For example, flax and bran seed muffins:

1-1/2 cups unbleached white flour
¾ cups flaxseed meal
¾ cup oat bran
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
1-1/2 cups carrots, shredded
2 apples peeled and shredded
½ cups raisins
1 cup nuts, chopped
¾ cup milk
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp vanilla

Mix together dry ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in carrots, apples, raisins(if desired) and nuts.
Combine milk, beaten eggs and vanilla.
Add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients.
Stir until ingredients are moistened, do not mix.
Fill muffin cups and bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 min.

Enjoy and think of this as better medicine!

LouAnn Good
Fitness Together Fort Myers