Benefits of Flaxseed Meal

Of late, flaxseed has emerged as one of the super foods, due to the various health benefits offered by these tiny seeds. The history of flaxseed has been traced to ancient Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans. It is believed that the origin of flaxseed was in Mesopotamia and the people of this region have been using it since the Stone Age. The people at that time were aware of the health benefits of these seeds, which was used very widely. However, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the cultivation and use of flaxseed also deteriorated. Nowadays, the popularity of flaxseed has once again revived, with more and more people realizing the health benefits of flaxseed. If you are not aware of the benefits of flaxseed meal, go through this article.

What is Flaxseed Meal?

Flax seeds are the seeds of the flax plant, which is now widely cultivated for its seeds and fiber. Apart from that, some people grow them as ornamental plants too. The seeds that are available in brown and yellow colors, can also be consumed as sprouts. Ground flaxseed is known as flaxseed meal, which can be made into various flaxseed recipes. Even flaxseed oil is said to offer various health benefits. As compared to whole flaxseed, flaxseed meal is more easy to digest and can be used in morning cereal or can be added to batter meant for preparing baked goods, like, muffins, bread, etc. Flaxseed meal looks like coarsely ground wheat flour only, but, has a slight nutty flavor. The nutritional value of flaxseed meal is similar to whole flaxseed only. Now, you know what is flaxseed meal. The next paragraph deals with the benefits of flaxseed meal and its nutritional value.

Flaxseed Meal Nutrition Facts

As mentioned above, flaxseed meal has a very high nutritional value, as it is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and other beneficial compounds. Flaxseed meal is much valued for the high levels of dietary fiber and omega 3 fatty acids in it. 20 grams of flaxseed contain 5.4 grams of dietary fiber, 3.5 grams of omega 3 fatty acids around one gram of omega 6 fatty acids. Apart from that, it contains 6.6 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of protein, 53.86 mcg folate, 38.56 mg calcium, 131.94 mg potassium, etc. Flaxseed meal is also a rich source of phytonutrients like lignin. Being a rich source of nutrients, flaxseed meal offers various benefits too. Let us take a look at the health benefits of flaxseed meal.

Health Benefits of Flaxseed Meal

Flaxseed and flaxseed products, like, oil, flaxseed meal, etc are very popular for their health benefits. The following are some of the benefits of flaxseed meal.

• Flaxseed meal is said to be good for cardiovascular health, as it contains considerable amounts of omega 3 fatty acids that is helpful in lowering LDL cholesterol. Consumption of flaxseed may prove beneficial for reducing the risk of heart diseases, stroke, high blood pressure, etc.
• Intake of foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids is also believed to be beneficial for controlling bone loss and related conditions. Omega 3 fatty acids are also said to reduce the symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions, like, asthma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.
• Flaxseed benefits include its role in controlling constipation, due to the high fiber content. Such fiber intake may also benefit the user by reducing the risk of colon cancer and by lowering cholesterol levels. Use of flaxseed meal may also help in stabilizing sugar levels.
• The fat content in flaxseed meal is believed to promote brain development in infants. It is also said to be beneficial for the fetus growing inside the uterus. In kids, flaxseed use is said to boost immunity and prevents respiratory infections.
• While, flaxseed is said to be good for checking the growth of prostate cancer in men, for women, it is beneficial in reducing the risk of breast cancer.
• Flaxseed may also be useful in maintaining a healthy skin, especially, for those with dry skin and conditions, like, eczema. It is also said to be effective in achieving weight loss, by increasing the metabolic rate of the body.

Now, you know more about the benefits of flaxseed meal. So, you may also reap flaxseed meal benefits by including it in your diet. However, moderate use is recommended, so as to avoid flaxseed side effects that may occur in case of over-consumption. Some people may develop allergic reactions after consuming flaxseed or its products. Such people, along with those suffering from gastrointestinal disorders must avoid consumption of flaxseed meal. Even breastfeeding and nursing women must seek the opinion of their doctor, in this regard.