Did you know that flax seeds are the first among one hundred and seventeen different foods around the world recommended for their Omega 3 essential acids content? One cup of Flax Seeds contains around one hundred and thirty three percent of the recommended daily dietary level of Omega 3 essential acids.

Each tablespoon of ground flax seeds contains about 1.8 grams of plant Omega 3s. The role of Omega 3s in a number of biological pathways has been much studied and explored. Flax seeds are also rich in fibre and lignans.

ALA, EPA and DHA

Alpha linolenic acid (ALA) is the main Omega 3 acid found in the highest proportions in flax seeds. This also functions as a very powerful antioxidant which does not disintegrate at higher temperatures and even when flax seeds are powdered and baked. They are then converted into EPA and DHA inside the body as needed. DHA is needed for proper learning and behaviour in children. DHA is also essential for proper development of visual and neurologic systems in infants. Also, this the reason that flax seeds do not lose their nutrient value even when heated to high temperatures and baked or powdered.

Omega 3 controls inflammation

Omega 3 essential fatty acids are primarily involved in the body’s inflammatory response. They cause or control inflammation in different parts of the body which is an essential protection measure. Omega 3 acids present in flaxseeds have been found to be effective in controlling inflammation in arthritis and reducing associate joint pain.

Omega 3 in heart care

Omega 3 essentials also participate in creating the right balance of good to bad cholesterol levels in the body. They strike the balance by increasing the levels of good cholesterol or high density lipoproteins. This is a good effect of omega s fatty acids which is exploited in heart care. Also, Omega 3 fatty acids regulate the level of triglycerides or bad cholesterol in the body.

Help for post-menopausal women

Scientists also rank flax seeds as one of the best sources of plant lignans which function as phytoestrogens. In other words, the lignans present in flaxseeds function as oestrogen and make up for lower oesterogen levels. Indirectly, they help bring about hormonal balance which offers essential relief in post-menopausal women.

The presence of omega 3 essentials and lignans significantly reduces the frequency of hot flashes, mood swings and maintain cycle regularity.

Counters depression

Omega 3 essential acids found in flax seeds have proven to lower levels of depression. They also boost the effects of anti-depressants and have been found to be effective in treating bipolar disorder also.

Helps Neurologic disorders

Research has revealed that Omega 3 essential acids help alleviate the symptoms of ADHD in children by improving concentration, memory, mental skills, thinking skills, remembering and learning. Some research studies have also supported the benefits that Omega 3 essential acids have in preventing progression of memory loss in Alzheimer’s disease.

Complete care for gastrointestinal system

Flax Seeds have a unique combined three-way action due to the abundance of Omega 3 essential acids, high fibre content and lignans. The high fibre content in flax seeds makes them remain in the digestive tract for longer and the germinal layer of flaxseeds contains special gel-like substances that increase the retention and absorption of nutrients from foods. At the same time, lignans are powerful antioxidants that support cellular health, balance hormones and support the growth of probiotics in the gut. Thus, lignans aid the growth of useful microorganisms in the gut while they eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses that cause flu and other common diseases. The Omega 3 essential acids in flaxseeds protect the inner lining of the gut and help promote the health of the gastrointestinal tract. This has been shown to have positive effects in people with weak gastrointestinal tract and with Crohn’s disease, etc.

This is why flax seeds are one of the highly recommended dietary foods. To know more about flax seeds and their uses, click here