Flaxseeds fight off pretty much everything.
Flaxseed, or more traditionally known as linseed, is a fiber superfood crop. The plant, which is native to the eastern Mediterranean through Western Asia, as well as the Middle East to India, helps prevent and treat a number of health ailments.
Here’s 9 ways flaxseeds fight for good health:
1. They fight cancer: The American National Cancer Institute highlighted flaxseeds as one of the six foods to be further researched for cancer studies, as they contain 800 times more lignans, a phytoestrogen with natural cancer-preventing compounds than any other tested food. They’re also rich in alpha linolenic acid, a known cancer-fighting agent.
2. They fight inflammation: This is due to flaxseeds’ richness in Omega 3 fatty acids.
3. They fight menopause: As a phytoestrogen, flaxseeds help stabilize hormone levels, which, in turn, prevents menopausal symptoms of night sweats, hot flashes, and severe mood swings.
4. They fight high cholesterol levels: Flaxseed consumption has been frequently associated with a reduction of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
5. They fight the flu: The lignans and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) found in flax, both strengthen the immune system, warding off bacterial infections and viruses.
6. They fight Diabetes: The high fiber and Omega-3 content found in flaxseeds help lower blood sugar levels.
7. They fight constipation: Flaxseeds’ dense fiber composition aids waste to pass through the colon quickly.
8. They fight “the blues:” Flaxseeds contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a cited mood-boosting compound. Their Omega-3 content also improves mood levels, as they aid brain cells to properly function.
9. They fight heart disease: Because flax has been shown to help lower total cholesterol levels, LDL, and triglycerides, flaxseeds keep the arteries clear and prevent blood cots, which reduces one’s overall chances of having a heart attack.
