Flaxseeds are an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid, which supports heart health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Picture: Pexels
Flaxseeds are shiny brown seeds, with their distinctive nutty flavour, are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
Also known as linseeds, flaxseeds are celebrated as a superfood due to their impressive nutritional profile and health benefits.
Flaxseeds are an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which supports heart health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Additionally, they are packed with both soluble and insoluble fibre, promoting regular bowel movements and overall digestive health.
Flaxseeds also contain lignans, plant compounds with antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation in the body.
For those dealing with chronic gut issues, flaxseed powder, or ground flaxseeds, may offer more benefits than whole flaxseeds. Here's why:
Grinding flaxseeds increases the availability of essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fibre. These nutrients are more easily absorbed by the body when the seeds are in powdered form.
Flaxseed powder offers a greater surface area for fibre to interact with the digestive system. This can be particularly beneficial for maintaining gut health, as it promotes regular bowel movements, supports gut flora balance, and may help alleviate symptoms of chronic conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the gut. Ground flaxseeds make these beneficial fatty acids more accessible to the body.
Flaxseed powder is easy to incorporate into a variety of foods and drinks, making it a convenient addition to a daily diet.
Regular consumption can play a key role in managing chronic gut ailments more effectively.
While traditional laxatives can offer short-term relief, they often come with side effects such as cramping, dehydration, and dependency.
Incorporating natural solutions like flaxseed powder into your daily routine may provide a more sustainable and gentle approach to achieving long-term digestive health.
IOL Lifestyle
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