*Flaxseed is also known as common flax or linseed.

*Flaxseeds come in two basic varieties, brown and yellow or golden, both having same nutritional values and equal amounts of short-chain omega-3 fatty acids.

*Flaxseeds produce a vegetable oil known as flaxseed or linseed oil.

*Flaxseed sprouts are edible, with a slightly spicy flavor. Excessive consumption of flaxseeds can cause diarrhea.

*Flaxseeds can be used as whole grains, flaxseed meal and flaxseed oil.

*Though flaxseeds are chemically stable while whole, ground whole seeds or oils become rancid much more quickly upon exposure to oxygen, and require special storage (generally refrigeration or in sealed packaging) to remain nutritious for even a short period of time.

*Flaxseeds are rich in unsaturated fats, protein, fiber and mucilage.

*Flaxseeds have a nutty buttery flavor.

*When buying, select clean, dry, healthy flaxseeds and store in a clean, dry, airtight container in a cool, dry place, preferably in the refrigerator. When buying flaxseed oil, make sure it is packed in opaque bottles, which will prevent light from spoiling it and buy it from a store that has good turnover. Keep it refrigerated for freshness. Should the oil develop a powerful odor, discard it.

*Never purchase ground flax, as it gets rancid very easily. Grind your own flaxseeds fresh in a coffee grinder and eat immediately.

Are they raw?

Yes and No.
*Yes, whole flaxseeds are raw.
*No, because ground flaxseed at the supermarkets gets rancid very easily. Make sure you read the label.

Health Benefits

1. Flaxseeds have a healthy combination of mono and polyunsaturated fats. They are excellent sources of alpha linolenic acid. Alpha linolenic acid is a type of plant-derived omega-3 fatty acid, similar to those found in fish such as salmon.

2. Regular consumption of flaxseed helps in lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, and may also help lower triglycerides in blood and blood pressure.

3. It reduces the risk of a heart attack by keeping the platelets from becoming sticky.

4. They are good source of protein, which is easily digested and contains all the essential amino acids needed for building a strong body.

5. They have a high content of dietary fiber and mucilage (about 12% of flaxseed), which makes it a gentle, non-irritating, natural laxative, and helps in control of constipation, hemorrhoids, diverticular disorders, etc. Flax mucilage is perfect for those who have a sensitive stomach, acting as a buffer for excess stomach acids, soothing ulcers or irritable bowel disorders.

6. As they are high in protein, very low in carbohydrates and high in dietary fiber, they increase satiety and reduce hunger. Also it may help in weight loss and maintenance due to the above factors.

7. Flaxseed is also rich in lignan, which is a type of phytoestrogen (antioxidant) and also provides fiber. Lignan in flaxseed is shown to fight disease – including a possible role in cancer prevention especially breast, colon, prostate, and perhaps skin cancer.

8. Naturally it is free of cholesterol and trans fats, and contains very low sodium, and hence maintains blood pressure, protects body against water retention, diseases like atherosclerosis, hypertension, etc.

9. Regular consumption of flaxseed is shown to reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis, gout, lupus etc.

10. They are rich sources of B group vitamins, which enhance the production of energy and stamina.

11. Excellent source of magnesium, which improves the muscle activity, relaxes the nerves, muscles and blood vessels, and shortens the recovery time for fatigued muscles after exertion.

12. Flaxseed also contains lecithin, which emulsifies fat and cholesterol.