Written By: Kriti Saraswat | Updated : March 3, 2014 7:08 PM IST
I have heard that eating flaxseeds is very good for one's health. What are their benefits? Is there any way to make them tastier?
Flaxseeds are extremely good for one's health. They are a prime source of omega-3 fatty acids which makes them a must-have in one's diet especially if you are a vegetarian. Unlike non-veg eaters, you do not get your intake of omega-3 fatty acids from other sources like fish, salmon, etc.
Flaxseeds or alsi are eaten during the winter months by many as they generate heat in the body. There are several benefits of eating flaxseeds:
They are high in antioxidants which prevent free-radical damage by protecting healthy cells from getting damaged. These also protect our bodies against different kinds of cancers including prostate and breast cancer.
They also contain dietary fibre which is essential for regulating proper bowel movements. Fibre prevents constipation and also keeps you fuller for a longer time. So people who are on a weight loss diet should eat flaxseeds regularly.
Flaxseeds also help keep lifestyle diseases like diabetes, high BP, heart disease at bay. They contain lignans which maintain normal blood sugar levels. People who already suffer from type 2 diabetes should also eat it to lower their levels. Since they lower the bad cholesterol levels, they help in maintaining heart health. They also prevent plaque formation in the arteries and lower the blood pressure making it ideal for people suffering from hypertension.
If you cannot consume plain flaxseeds, roast them to add extra crunch. Have it on an empty stomach in the morning with warm water in the seed or powdered form. But if that does not suit your taste buds, add them to dishes like salads, raita, and fruit chaats along with other spices where its taste will be overpowered by other ingredients and yet you will be able to get its health benefits. You can make protein muffins and add a tablespoon of flaxseeds in it, or even add it your paranthas and rotis to make them more nutritious. (Read: Eat flaxseeds to give your heart a helping hand!)
Health benefits of other foods
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