HEALTH - THE WONDERS OF FLAXSEED

I thought you may be interested in this health tip, especially if you are missing your favorite cookie because eggs are not on your list of “acceptable” foods. Hope can be found in a tiny little flax seed!

There are two types of flax, golden and brown. Both have somewhat of a nutty flavor and are not digestible if eaten whole. I have been using flax seed for years because of its many health benefits:

Anti-inflammatory – Flax is very high in omega 3 fatty acids which has healing anti-inflammatory properties noticeable in many diseases, including:
o Gout
o Arthritis
o Lupus
o M.S.

Cancer - The lignans in flaxseed appear to play a role in protecting against various types of cancer.

Gastro-intestinal -
o Loaded with fiber, flax absorbs water which results in softer stools and improved regulation for those experiencing constipation and in more formed bowel movements for those with diarrhea. It is not known to cause diarrhea unless over-used.
o Relieves hemorrhoids
o Relieves diverticular disease.

Heart Disease – Studies have revealed that omega 3 fatty acids:
o Slow growth of artery-hardening plaque.
o Reduce risk of heart attack by lowering potential for blood clots.
o Prevent irregular heart rates.
o Lower blood pressure.
o Promote production of natural nitroglycerin keeping the blood vessels open.

Mental Health - Low levels of Omega fatty acids are associated with:
o Depression
o Alzheimer’s
o decreased cognitive function, including learning disorders
o violent behavior.

Vision – Low levels of Omega 3 fatty acids are also associated with visual problems.

Because eggs are simply a binder in many recipes, flax “eggs” can be used as a replacement except in primarily egg based recipes, such as angel food cake.

Grind a cup or two of flax seed in a blender until a coarse powder develops. It is now ready for use when you need “egg” for a recipe or ground flax for breakfast. Store this ground seed, as well as the unground, in the freezer for maintaining freshness.

MAKING A FLAX “EGG”:

1 TBSP. ground golden flax
3 TBSP. water

Mix together and allow to rest for 5 minutes. This will develop a consistency much like a beaten egg. Being equivalent to one egg, add this according to the instructions given in your recipe.

I also sprinkle 2 TBSP. of ground flax seed on my cereal every morning. If you find that the thicker consistency in cold cereal and milk “is just too much to bear”, it works perfectly on oatmeal!

Those consuming flax seed on a regular basis
often find that their
cholesterol and blood pressure levels
return to normal.

Eliminating the potentially horrific adverse affects of most cholesterol and blood pressure drugs is a blessing all its own, not to mention the cost effectiveness. Flax seed can be purchased for under $2 per pound!

While drinking plenty of water to assist flax in doing its job, this tiny seed carries quite a powerful punch and this is only the beginning of what is being discovered about it.

Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie

DISCLAIMER:

All content of this article is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. The author sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. The information herein is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. This is best left to the Creator of the universe. In all health-related situations, “qualified healthcare professionals” should always be consulted. The author deems THE GREAT PHYSICIAN to be most qualified. The author assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material.