Do you know the health benefits of flaxseed? According to research it is full of fiber, fatty acids, protein, and more

Flaxseed has been cultivated for thousands of years, used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. In native North American populations, flaxseed has been an ancient remedy used to treat burns and wounds. In modern-day, it is utilized for a wide variety of ailments but in particular is taken for diabetes, cancer, and dietary imbalances.

The seed itself contains a decent amount of fiber which will be elaborated more later in the article. When flaxseed is converted into oil, it appears to lower the bad cholesterol and studies have demonstrated lowered cholesterol in individuals previously presenting with high levels.

Here are 5 benefits of flaxseed on a regular basis:

1. High fiber

A single tablespoon of flaxseeds contains nearly 2 grams of fiber. Dietary fiber is made up of the components of food the human digestive system cannot breakdown. Therefore, it passes through the body forming the bulk of bowel movements and sends important signals to the brain. These signals inform the brain that the body has obtained food and is currently satisfied, thus controlling blood sugar and hunger levels. Your gut is home to bacteria that assists in metabolism. Fiber also feeds this bacteria, so it can continue to aid with digestion and provide your body the nutrients it needs. Sufficient levels of fiber have been correlated with lowered risk or severity of diabetes, heart disease, and various GI conditions.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids

Flaxseeds provide the daily recommended level of omega-3 fatty acids in one single tablespoon, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. These essential fats are necessary to acquire through foods since the body is unable to synthesize them on its own. Omega-3 plays a vital role in cell membranes and receptors, allowing for proper communication between cells. They also control certain genetic and circulatory functions, including blood clotting and artery contraction. Across the different responsibilities of these fatty acids, supplementation or regular consumption has been correlated to lower incidences of heart disease, stroke, arthritis, and cancer.

3. Lignans

Lignans are antioxidants that balance hormones throughout the body and support the immune system. This component alone of flaxseed has demonstrated strong capabilities to lower LDL or the bad cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, improve ovarian, prostate, and colon health, and aid in digestion. More recently, they have been identified as protectants against cancer. Lignans are phytoestrogens, which latch onto the receptor sites that other estrogens do as well. This prevents other, more toxic forms of estrogen from binding to such receptors, hindering the ability for cancer cells to develop.

4. Controls blood sugar and blood pressure

Several studies have been conducted highlighting the ability of flaxseed to lower blood sugar and blood pressure. One study found that participants who consumed 50 grams of flaxseed for 4 weeks produced a 27 percent reduction in blood sugar levels after a meal. Another research paper indicated that analysis of over 1500 people yielded a decrease in both the systolic and diastolic blood pressure over a 12 week period.

5. Plant-based protein

Flaxseeds provide a high-quality protein, augmenting the improved immune functioning and other dietary benefits. Protein content in flaxseeds is comparable to that of animal protein in terms of satiety. However, plant-based proteins provide more amino acids than animal-based and therefore may be a better choice for certain people. Dietary proteins are crucial for virtually all bodily processes, fueling functions ranging from muscle maintenance to neural development.

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