Flaxseeds – the world’s healthiest foods

Flaxseeds or Alsi are not commonly included in our daily diet, but these tiny, brown seeds pack a lot of health benefits. It is a good source of dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Taken before a meal, flaxseed fiber tends to make people feel less hungry so that they might eat less food. Research is leading to the theory that this fiber binds with cholesterol in the intestine and prevents it from being absorbed which may lower the risk of “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis). Just 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds contains almost 2 grams of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive regularity.

One tablespoon of flaxseed contains

·         35 to 40 calories

·         1.6 grams  protein         

·         2.8 grams carbohydrate

·         2.8 grams fat 

·         2.5 to 8 grams  fiber

·         3 milligrams  sodium

Potential side effects of flaxseeds

Flaxseed may have laxative properties. Excess intake of these seeds could lead to abdominal discomfort, an increased number of bowel movements and diarrhea. People with diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis, should not consume flaxseed. So, do include flaxseeds in your daily diet.