Why Flax Seed?

Flax seed seems to be popping up everywhere. In my own daily life I see people consuming it at the gym as a nutrition supplement, I see people grinding it and topping their salads with it. Flax seed is used for it's fiber content along with it's containing the omega-3 fatty acid, alpha linolenic acid. The fiber of course we all know to be necessary for proper function of the digestion system and for regular bowel function. Most questions arrive with the omega-3 alpha linolenic acid. Benefits of the omega-3 are seen in the heart, hair, nails, joints and skin. Most importantly it fights hormone influenced cancers such as breast and colon cancer.

Are all forms of flax seed the same?

NO! They are not. All forms of flax seed have particular health benefits but not all forms contain the fiber, protein and omege-3 fatty acids. Milled flax seed often contains only the fiber and protein of the flax seed as the oils have all been extracted to leave the dry powder. This is great for some cooking purposes but the health benefits of the flax seed have been greatly diminished. The omega-3 is the most beneficial portion of the flax seed. Flax seed oils are very popular and contain the omeg-3 acids but do not contain the fiber, lignan or protein. There are hi-lignan oils that have had the pulp put back into the oil after crushing.

For the most comprehensive health benefits the whole flax seed contains all of the benefits offered by the flax seed. The best way to get all of the contents of flax is to include the whole grain into your daily diet. Flax seed can be easily ground at home with a small hand-held grinder that is available from most flax seed providers.