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Flax seeds – useful and medicinal properties. Video
Flaxseed oil has been known for its medicinal properties since ancient times. Today, flaxseed is very popular in traditional medicine because it contains a large amount of omega-3 fatty acids and other beneficial components. Useful flax has a beneficial effect on the body and cures many diseases, while improving the condition of organs.
Flax seeds – useful and medicinal properties
The composition and benefits of flaxseed oil
Linseed oil contains many nutrients, including: – high quality protein; – soluble fiber; – vitamins B1, B2, C, E; – carotene; – calcium; – iron; – phosphorus; – potassium; – magnesium; – zinc.
These substances help the body to better absorb vegetable fats. They significantly improve the condition of the stomach and intestinal mucosa, and reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer. Flax seeds also have antifungal and antibacterial properties.
When buying flaxseeds, choose whole flax seeds rather than crushed seeds, which can lose some of their properties under the influence of heat and light.
The omega-3 fatty acids contained in the oil have a positive effect on brain function, support the optimal functioning of cell membranes, increase immunity and improve hormone synthesis. Many scientists believe that the work of many organs deteriorates precisely when there is a lack of these fatty acids in the human body.
Taking flaxseed oil helps to increase immunity, as a result of which the body successfully resists colds and viral diseases. It is useful to give it to school-age children, and pregnant women who take flaxseed oil will provide their future babies with healthy brain cells. For people with diabetes, small doses of flaxseed oil can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Flax seeds also have a cosmetic effect – they are useful for dry skin that is sensitive to ultraviolet rays
Those who want to lose weight can safely take flaxseed oil, since it helps the body accumulate only those fats that it needs to maintain healthy functioning. Flax fatty acids will burn off excess fat and help control weight.
Finally, the beneficial substances of flaxseed oil will strengthen the cardiovascular system and remove cholesterol from the body, which will cleanse blood vessels and reduce the risk of heart attack.
How to use flaxseed oil
Flaxseed oil should be taken 1-2 tablespoons per day. Unlike sunflower or safflower oil, linseed oil contains 45-60% omega-3 fatty acids. The oil does not need to be heated before use in order not to destroy these acids. You can add flaxseed healing agent to any prepared food right before serving.
One of the disadvantages of linseed oil is the rapid oxidation of its fats, as a result of which it acquires an unpleasant rancid taste.
Flaxseed oil must be purchased in dark plastic bottles, which must be kept in the refrigerator and must be tightly sealed. It is advisable to purchase bottles with a capacity of no more than 250 grams so that the oil does not stagnate for a long time.
Flaxseed powder can be simply added to food, using it as an additional healthy seasoning to various dishes.
Despite the health benefits of flaxseed oil, its nutritional value is significantly lower compared to olive oil. In addition, flax can have a number of side effects that include stomach upset, abdominal pain, and allergic reactions, the main symptoms of which are swelling, itching, rashes, redness and shortness of breath.
Flax oil is harmful to people who take drugs to normalize high blood pressure, pain relievers and anticoagulants to improve blood clotting.
Women should remember that flaxseed oil contains phytoestrogens, which are analogous to the female hormone estrogen in the body.
Excessive consumption of flaxseed oil can harm pregnant and lactating women, therefore, it should be discontinued in the second and third trimester of pregnancy so as not to cause premature birth. Flax should also be taken with caution by women suffering from hormone imbalances.
Adding flaxseed oil to food
The recipe for adding flaxseed oil to food has long been successfully practiced by experienced housewives. It can be combined with salads and other vegetable or meat dishes as it increases the nutritional value of foods. Dressing cabbage or meat with flax oil will help the fatty acids get to the cell membranes faster.
In order for linseed oil to be absorbed to the maximum, it is advisable to add it to foods high in vitamin E, B6, and magnesium. Of course, you should not expect that a tablespoon of flaxseed oil a day will instantly cure all diseases, but the risk of getting sick will be significantly reduced.
Flaxseed oil can be given to children by adding to the ketchup they love so much. A few drops of oil will make it more nutritious and healthy, and the taste of ketchup will overpower the flax flavor that is not too pleasant for children.