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Health & Fitness

All About FLAXSEEDS & Simple Recipe For Peanut Butter Banana Flaxseed Porridge

For centuries, flaxseed (also known as linseed) has been recognized as a superfood by many cultures all over the world. 

Consuming flaxseed for its benefits goes all the way back to the 8th century when King Charlemagne made his loyal subjects eat the seeds because he believed they were extremely healthful. In Latin, flax was given the name Linum usitatissimum meaning “most useful.” 

What are some of the numerous health benefits associated with the consumption of flaxseeds? 

Flaxseeds are an excellent source of Omega-3 essential fatty acids, the “good” fats that have been shown to have heart-healthy effects. 

Flaxseeds are rich in lignans which are one of the major classes of phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are estrogen-like chemical compounds with antioxidant qualities, which are able to scavenge free radicals in the body. 

Flaxseeds are also rich in both soluble fiber (which dissolves in water) and insoluble fiber (which doesn’t dissolve in water). 

According to the Mayo Clinic, soluble fiber dissolves with water and creates a gel-like substance that helps lower cholesterol and glucose levels. Insoluble fiber absorbs water which adds bulk to your digestive tract and helps to move things through quickly. 

In addition to being an excellent source of “good” fats, antioxidants and fiber, modern research is beginning to find evidence to suggest that flaxseed can also help lower the risk of diabetes, cancer and coronary heart disease, improve immune function and brain functions (e.g.. memory), act as an anti-inflammatory, and help prevent and control high blood pressure.  

*Note:
 I have read that that pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and people suffering from bowel obstructions should avoid supplementing with flaxseeds because of its estrogen-like properties and high level of fiber. 

I’ve been adding more flaxseeds into my diet lately because studies have also shown that dietary intake of flaxseed can decrease the risk of hot flashes among postmenopausal women. I’ve been exploring different ways to consume ground flaxseeds, and I was happy to find ways I never thought of. 

I’ve read that 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed per day should be a target, but I don’t know how valid this information is. 

THERE ARE SO MANY WAYS TO EAT GROUND FLAXSEEDS: 

-sprinkle into your favorite non-dairy yogurt 
-sprinkle onto your favorite hot or cold cereal
-add to smoothies or non-dairy protein shakes 
-sprinkle onto your favorite non-dairy pudding 
-sprinkle onto your favorite nondairy “ice cream” or frozen dessert
-add to pancake or waffle batter 

To learn more about flaxseed, to find out 11 more ways to consume ground flaxseeds, and for a super simple recipe for peanut butter banana flaxseed porridge, go to:http://veganamericanprincess.com/all-about-flaxseeds-and-recipe-for-peanut-butter-banana-flaxseed-po...

Debby Sunshine
Vegan American Princess
Voted #2 for Top 25 Vegan Blogs on Skinny Scoop!

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