Let’s Talk About Flax.

 

Good things come in small packages seeds.

Flaxseed is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. We love these little guys for their cure-all health benefits, mild flavor…and because they’re so darn easy to add to your existing diet.

Flaxseed Plays 3 Primary Roles in Nutrition:

They’re the #1 Source of Lignans in the human diet.  Flaxseeds contains up to 800 times more lignans than other plant-based food. What are lignans? They’re the chemical compounds with antioxidant properties that scavenge the evil free radicals in the body.

They’re a Top Source for Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Among all the 127 World’s Healthiest Foods, flaxseeds come out on top as the best source for omega-3’s.  These fats are termed “essential” because they are necessary for survival yet cannot be produced by the body.  Among the essential fatty acids, omega-3 is the type that the mainstream American diet lacks the most.

They’re an Excellent Source of Fiber. Flaxseed is rich in soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, thus making it a helpful digestive aid.

Other Medicinal Super Powers:

Prevents Cancer – The risk is high for developing prostate cancer (1 in 6 men) and breast cancer (1 in 8 women), but eating flaxseed regularly can help lower your risk. The lignans have antigenic properties that prevent tumors from forming new blood cells.

Reduces Inflammation – omega-3’s reduce inflammation that leads to asthma, arthritis, migrains and osteoporosis.

Promotes Bone Health – alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), one kind of omega-3 found in flaxseeds, helps promote strong bones.

Aids Digestion – the fiber and lignans work together to prevent constipation and promote regular digestion.

Improves Skin – helps relieve skin conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis, and beautifies your overall hair, skin and nails.

Decreases your risk of: obesity, heart disease, stroke

Reduces effects of: post-menopausal symptoms, ADHD

Improves: blood sugar levels, mood, digestive health, brain performance, immunity, cholesterol levels, cardiovascular health, eyesight, joint mobility

 

Adding Flaxseed to Your Diet – The Lazy Man’s Guide:

Sneaking this superfood ingredient into your day is as easy as sprinkling it on your morning cereal. The seeds are so small, you won’t even notice them. The mild, nutty flavor is often flavorless when added to a meal.  Here are a few no-effort ways to add flax to your day:

*Mix with your oatmeal, cereal or pancakes.
*Sprinkle on top of a salad or sandwich.
*Add a spoonful to your pasta sauce, chili or stew.
*Bake with it! Excellent in baked goods like breads or muffins.
*Add to condiments like mayo, mustard or dressings.
*Add to drinks like coffee, juice, or even cocktails and sangria.  In fact, at Dragon Bowl, we infuse our homemade lemonade with flaxseeds!

 

Recipe: No-Bake Flaxseed Energy Bites

Try this recipe at home for a sweet and healthy snack packed with the generous health-giving benefits of flaxseeds:

*1/2 cup ground flaxseed
*1 cup dry oatmeal
*2/3 cup coconut flakes
*1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
*1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
*1/3 cup local honey
*1 Tbsp. chia seeds (optional)
*1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1.) Mix all ingredients together and let set in fridge for about 30 minutes.
2.) Roll into small 1 inch balls.
3.) Store in an air-tight container in fridge.