Flaxseed Oil Benefits
Posted on 01. Aug, 2010 by admin in Alkaline Foods, Blog
Some people may have heard the flaxseed oil, coming from blue flowering plant grown and cultivated in Western Canadian Prairies and derived from flax seeds which oil is taken in natural form without employing chemical process. But of course, many are still not aware of what benefits it can give to us. With this regard, if you would like to join the wagon of health and wellness oriented people, you may have wanted to know its full potential and why it should be included on your daily diet.
Flaxseed oil is natural oil which can be considered as nature’s riches source of essential omega fatty acids. To be particular on its nutritional value, omega-6, omega 9, Vitamin B, fiber, protein, zinc, potassium, magnesium, and lecithin are what you can get from the flaxseed oil. It is said that flaxseed oil has the same effect of fish oil to human, as it is the same essential fatty acid found in fish oil that contains acid alpha-linoleic acid of ALA.
In general, health experts including nutritionists and groups of researchers have partially proven how flaxseed oil is essential to immune system, cardiovascular system, circulatory system, nervous system, and even the reproductive system. For further elaboration, several clinical studies showed that flaxseed can be beneficial to our body in many ways like:
- Lowering Cholesterol
There were promising results found in both laboratory and animal studies on how flaxseed oil can have significant effect on blood triglyceride levels in animals. However, further studies are recommended to collect more conclusive evidence because when several studies were conducted to human, some results are positive by decreasing blood levels of total cholesterol and lowering the density of bad cholesterol to participants. However, there were no same effects in other studies. Therefore, people with high cholesterol should consult doctors prior to taking flaxseed oil due to its unclear effects on some clinical studies.
- Protect Against Heart Disease
Aside from vegetables, fruits, and other healthy foods, flax seed contains ALA that reduces the risk of coronary disease. This has been proven in several researches that people who consume rich in ALA in their diet are less likely to have heart attack. It works effectively by reducing the inflammation, making the platelets less sticky and promoting blood vessels to be healthier.
- Relieve Sjogren’s syndrome
This is an autoimmune condition in which immune system is attacking glands in the body which is responsible to produce salivary, tear glands, and moisture. There is one small study suggested that in taking 1-2 grams of flaxseed daily can improve the symptoms of dry eye.
- Improve Poor Concentration
People are usually lacking of Omega 3 in their diet, and good thing to say that flax seed is the best source for Omega 3. We may not realize that Omega 3 is very important to protect the cell membranes. Since our brain is largely composed of phospholipids that are made of essential fatty acids, therefore, essential oil like flaxseed can be best aid to improve moods, memory, and poor concentration.
- Improves Bowel Movements
The soluble and insoluble fiber, which also contains mucilage, can clean the colon and removes toxic material, dried mucus, and metabolic waste. While flaxseed oil can act as a buffer to reduce excess stomach acids, it is said to be best in soothing even irritable bowel disorders. Flaxseed oil can lubricate and absorb toxins that can build up in the bowel. However, it is worth taking a note that the effect does not apply to all. There are some cases wherein those who have inflammatory bowel disease, diarrhea, and diverculitis can only worsen their condition by taking flaxseed oil due to its laxative effects.
- Prevents Fungal Infections
The lignans compound found in flaxseed oil has anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties. For instance, one of the causes of fungal infection is nail problem. On the other hand, proper growth of nails can be controlled by proper diet. Essential oil like flaxseed oil can nourish some nail conditions which is rich in essential fatty acids, and also considered to be responsible in proper nail growth.
Flaxseed oil is widely available in forms of liquid, capsule, powder, flour and soluble fiber. For adults, flaxseed oil can be mixed in liquid that is about 6-12 ounces. Another way to take flaxseed oil is by mouth up to three times a day. The recommended daily dose of flaxseed supplement is at least 1,000 mg. Nevertheless, flaxseed oil is best taken in natural way through your daily diet. Adding flaxseed oil in green vegetable salad is highly recommended.
Precautions: Note for the possible side effects in taking flaxseed oil. With this regard, asking for health professional’s supervision is required. Overdose may result to shortness of breath, weakness, difficulty walking, and much worst, it may cause paralysis. Unripe flaxseed pods are said to be poisonous and should not be eaten. Do not apply flaxseed oil to open, broken or wounded skin. Lastly, pregnant and breastfeeding women should stop consuming flaxseed oil because it has other hormonal effects and can stimulate menstruation which is harmful and may pose health threat during pregnancy.
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