The small grains in which the power of protection against many serious diseases is enchanted are well known to each of you. You have certainly heard of linseed. It is one of the most easily accessible and very cheap products, so its properties are not appreciated.
Flaxseed
Nowadays, it is believed that if something is cheap, it is not effective. Yes, there are sometimes products whose production itself is quite expensive, but their properties are so valuable that it is worth spending more money on them. However, there are also products which, as a rule, do not cost much, and their health properties are invaluable. One such product is Flaxseed. Today we will introduce you to these golden grains and present the most important nutrients they contain and all their health properties.
Nutrients in flaxseed
Unsaturated fatty acids (Omega 3 - 23%, Omega 6 - 5%, polyunsaturated fatty acids - 28%, monounsaturated fatty acids - 7%) - necessary for proper functioning, support primarily the cardiovascular, circulatory, nervous and digestive systems, They ensure smooth skin and healthy hair and nails, strengthen the body's resistance to disease and stress, protect cells against free radical breakdown, delay the ageing process, improve mental abilities, including concentration and memory.
Fibre (27%) - supports intestinal peristalsis, provides a feeling of satiety and accelerates slimming and removal of food deposits.
Vitamins - A, D, E, K, C, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12
Mineral compounds - iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, fluorine, manganese, selenium.
Folic acid - regulates the formation and functioning of all cells in the body, shows blood-forming effects and is essential in the synthesis of nucleic acids, from which our DNA is formed.
Protein (18%) - a vital nutrient, muscle building block and an energy source for our body.
Choline - essential for development and the brain and heart, as well as folic acid, protects the foetus from various defects. In addition, it is involved in controlling muscle, brain and heart functioning.
Phytosterols - lower the level of LDL fraction in blood and regulate the level of total cholesterol
Antioxidants - they delay the ageing process, protect cells against free radicals, support the work of the brain, heart and all body organs.
Flaxseed as superfood
Flaxseed, due to its richness and high content of ingredients, is considered to be one of the superfoods - plants with the highest content and variety of essential nutrients.
In addition to these nutrients, flaxseed also contains a small number of cyanogenic glycosides which, when soaked, can release hydrocyanic acid (Prussian acid).
However, this is a greater advantage of the seed than its disadvantage, because the amounts of this acid are so small that even if you consume four spoonfuls of seed a day, there is no fear of any poisoning. However, why is this an advantage and not a cause for concern?
When linseed is consumed together with juice, fruit, honey or dairy products, cyanogenic glycosides in the presence of sulphur are converted by rhodanese (an enzyme found in the liver, among others) into Vitamin B12. In addition, cyanides in such small quantities have a disinfectant and anti-inflammatory effect.
Properties of flaxseed
Helps in losing weight
The high content of fibre increases the feeling of satiety for long hours and reduces the feeling of hunger, which in turn reduces the desire to eat. In addition, fibre accelerates the removal of undigested food residues in the intestines, which slow down weight loss, disrupt intestinal peristalsis and cause bloating.
It alleviates gastrointestinal diseases
Linseed is extremely helpful in various disorders of the digestive system, relieves heartburn and ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, reduces inflammation of mucous membranes, helps to remove constipation and prevents its formation.
Helps to create a smooth complexion and shiny hair
A large amount of antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids contained in linseed smoothes the skin and protects it from free radicals, as well as helping to eliminate wrinkles and pimples and prevent their formation.
Regular drinking of linseed helps to keep the skin smooth, healthy-looking, firm and properly moisturised for many years. It also smoothes, moisturises and strengthens hair and speeds up its growth.
Delays the ageing process
Linseed has an excellent effect on maintaining a young appearance and an efficient organism for many years. Regular consumption of flaxseed prevents the breakdown of cells due to free radicals, as these grains are a real treasure of antioxidants. Eating it can significantly delay the advent of old age and maintain high mental and physical fitness.
