From improving one’s fitness regimen to swapping junk food for well-balanced meals, just about everyone is looking for ways to achieve a healthy lifestyle. With the rising popularity of superfoods, we are used to hearing about new menu options and ways to enrich our everyday diets. As the latest superfood to keep on our radars, flax seeds have been known to offer many health benefits and could potentially be a great addition to your daily meals. These seeds, which offer a nutty flavour, may be the newest pantry item to introduce to your palate. 

Since your body does not naturally produce Omega-3 fatty acids, flax seeds are a beneficial way to get a dose of these good fats, which also help with decreasing inflammation in the body. Flax seeds also contain a good amount of fibre that can help regulate your bowels. In addition, they also contain chemical compounds called lignans, which are said to help the body digest estrogen.

It has also been said flax seeds can help prevent the risk of diabetes, cancer, stroke, heart disease, and even help the intensity of hot flashes for women who are going through menopause.

It is usually recommend to consume no more than one to two tablespoons of these seeds, per meal. You can purchase ground flax, or grind the seeds up yourself by using a coffee grinder. Make sure to store them into your freezer to maintain the nutritional benefits. For a quick breakfast fix, you can add some flax seed to yogurt, oatmeal, smoothies, and protein shakes. If you’re in the mood for baking, you can add some flax seed as a substitute for a portion of the flour, or bring a nutritional flax twist to your usual muffins and other baked goods. 

Far from just a breakfast option, flax is also being used as a salad topping and a health-conscious lunchtime choice. Try drizzling some flaxseed oil opver a salad, or even using a tablespoon when cooking with meat or making sauces. As with any new health food, remember to ask your doctor if it is a good option to introduce flax into your diet. After all, consuming more than the recommended amount may result in an allergic reaction or other negative side effects. 

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