Lauren's Corner

Fantastic Flaxseed

Have you noticed lately that flaxseed is in everything.

Flaxseed products are on the rise, but did you know that this resilient seed which has been touted as the new wonder food, has actually been around for more than 4,000 years.

Today, there are countless studies being done on the many benefits of flaxseed. Scientists are claiming that flaxseed may help the body defend against menopausal symptoms, dry eye and even breast cancer.

The great benefit of flaxseed is that it can easily be incorporated into your daily diet by using it in just about anything at anytime. It is known to be the absolute best source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids. The recommended daily dosage of flaxseed equates to just one tablespoon per day. Flaxseed is readily available in most supermarkets or health food stores and can be taken in oil supplement form, cold pressed oil, whole flaxseed and ground flaxseed. (The ground flax is the most recommended since you get the benefit of all the fiber, lignans and the essential fatty acids.)

Flaxseed Facts

1. Flaxseed comes in dark, reddish brown or golden color. The nutritional value is the same, the color is up to you.

2. Flax needs to grow in a cool climate. Most flax today is grown in Canada or North Dakota.

3. Make sure your source of flaxseed is Organic.

4. Ground flax has a shelf life of 3-4 months, while whole seeds can last up to 12 months.

5. Flax should be stored in an air tight container in a cool, dry place. It is not necessary to refrigerate flaxseed although some people do.

6. Flaxseed is best known for its fiber content, which is used to produce linen. It is this type of fiber that absorbs water and acts as a natural stool softener.

Useful Hints For Incorporating Flaxseed Into Your Diet

- Add ground flax to any of your baking recipes.
- Sprinkle flaxseed into yogurt, oatmeal or salads.
- Mix ground flax into organic peanut butter or honey, then use this as a tasty spread on toast.
- Use cold pressed flaxseed oil in your salad dressing.
- Take a flaxseed supplement with your daily multi-vitamin.

There are no limits when it comes to the benefits of flax. I hope this enlightened you to the nutritional facts of this fantastic seed. If you would like to purchase a bottle of Flaxseed, please check out the Vitamin Shoppe! They offer a great selection of Flaxseed supplements.

Have a Healthy Day!