The Benefits of Flax Seed
August 27, 2012.Have you had some flaxseed bread lately?
If not, you might be missing out on some serious benefits. Flaxseed helps reduce arthritic pain, acne, constipation, chances of heart diseases, cholesterol, hormone-sensitive cancers, diabetes and it slows down the aging of skin (perk!), among others. The top three role players in flaxseed breads are the Omega-3 acids, lignans and fiber.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Flax is recognized as the richest source of essential fatty acid Omega-3, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Research has proven that ALA is essential in preventing heart attacks, lower high blood pressure and cholesterol and reduces the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the blood vessels). Along with these cardiovascular perks, a recent study done at the University of Toronto discovered that the Omega-3 fatty acids also play a part in the fight against diabetes. Participants who ate flaxseed bread had 28% lower blood sugar levels than those who ate wheat flour bread. ALA allows nutrients to enter the cells and assists in the removal of toxins, making them potent antioxidants. Because your body does not naturally produce ALA, it is a necessary part of your diet.
2. Lignans
Flaxseed is also high in lignans – a unique group of phytochemicals (plant chemicals), which are a major class of phytoestrogens (estrogen-like compounds). Flax has up to 800 times the amount of lignans of any tested plant food. Lignans protect against hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast, uterine and prostate cancers. Lignans breakdown and interfere with the cancer-promoting effects of estrogen in women. While in men, research has found that lignans repressed the growth of human prostate cancer cells. The benefits for women are also present in the phytoestrogens found in flaxseed, which are responsible for relieving menopausal symptoms, often being as effective as hormone replacement therapy.
3. Fiber
Flaxseed bread is a great part of a fiber rich diet. Rich in both soluble and insoluble fibers, flaxseed is a driving force in a healthy digestive system. Soluble fibers work to soothe irritable bowels and help eliminate bowels easier by bulking up stools with gelatinous mucilage, a gel that makes stools easier to pass. Insoluble fibers have a laxative effect, preventing constipation, and helping to move toxins, cholesterol and waste from the colon. In general, fibers prevent hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, colon and breast cancer, heart disease and diabetes, while regulating the digestive system for an overall healthier life.
Nova Era’s flaxseed bread helps contribute to your healthy lifestyle. Its vast benefits are only complimented by its warm nutty flavour, which makes it the perfect bun for any sandwich – or to be enjoyed with dinner.
Come in to any of our locations and try the flaxseed bread with your favourite sandwiches. This healthy – and tasty! – decision won’t disappoint.