I've decided to highlight a particular "power" or "super" food each week. This particular food will be plant-based (of course) and is deemed super due to its exceptionally high nutrional value. Many of these foods are inexpensive to buy at your local health food store, especially when bought in bulk or on sale and are relatively inexpensive when you think of the value of your long-term health.
Today's superfood is the flaxseed. Flaxseeds come from a plant that is native to the region extending from the eastern Mediterranean to India. Various parts of the plant are used to make soap, fabric (linen), paper, dye, medicines and even fishing nets. Nutritionally, they contain nutrients that protect the cardiovascular system-namely, lignans, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Most of us don't get enough omega-3 fatty acids in our diet and by adding a tablespoon of flaxseed to our daily diet, we can enhance our health in many ways.
Try spooning ground flax on top of salads and oatmeal. Drop some into the blender when making your power smoothies and even replace an egg with one tablespoon ground flax mixed with three tablespoons water when baking. Soon, you'll be coming up with creative ideas of your own when adding this "superfood" to your diet!
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Love all your posts Aimee! Is it true flax seeds increase the chance of prostate cancer in men? I heard that many years ago and was wondering if this research still stands. I've stayed away from flax seeds b/c I don't want to increase my husband's or my boys' chance of cancer as there is a lot of family history on his side of the family.
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah!
ReplyDeleteI have never heard this particular fact. On the contrary, flaxseed, which contains the omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic is thought to protect against many types of cancer, including prostate. Recently, there has been some clinical evidence suggesting that flaxseed supplements may be useful in men with early stage prostate cancer. This from the American Cancer Society.
good to know! thanks Aim!
ReplyDelete