Flax seeds are tiny seeds full of nutrition even commonly known as linseed or alsi. They have earthy and nutty flavour. According to the research, flax seeds have numerous uses and benefits.
Let's look at the flax seeds health benefits
1) Flax seeds for Hair and skin
Flax seeds benefits are even seen for hair and skin. Flax seeds are a good source of vitamin E. Linseed oil can be applied directly on the scalp to get the most benefits of it. It helps to make the hair stronger and promote hair growth. Similarly Flax seeds gel can benefit hair and skin. Apply flaxseed gel on hair and wash for 1 hour before hair wash. It will help to increase the shine of hair and face.
2) Flax seeds to Cure constipation
Soaked flax seeds are rich in fibre and consist of natural laxatives therefore it has benefits to cure constipation.One can use roasted flax seed powder to soak it in water for overnight.
Also Read: Cinnamon for Periods | Menstruation Remedies
3) Flax seeds Regularise menstrual cycle
Flax seeds benefit females by maintaining the normal length between the ovulation and menstruation. It also helps females in fertility by increasing the chances of conception. It also helps to maintain the hormonal balance. Flax seeds have also shown some benefits for improvement of PCOS.
It is a progesterone rich food and a great source of omega 3s & 6s.
4) Flax seeds for Weight loss
Alsi benefits include that of weight loss. They are a high source of omega fats and fibre due to which they give you satiety value. To get the proper absorption of nutrients it's better to have flaxseeds powder should be consumed. Even flax seeds oil can be consumed for optimal benefits.
Also Read: Moringa Leaf Benefits for Women | Moringa Leaves for Weight Loss
5) Flax seeds are Heart friendly
Studies say that Flaxseed oil capsules can be taken for omega fatty acid which is known as good oil or heart friendly oil. Even flax seed water can be consumed for cardiovascular benefits. Grind the flaxseed and add it to the water . This flax seed water can be consumed early in the morning empty stomach for its health benefits.
6) Flax seeds have No gluten
Like jowar, flaxseeds are gluten free. So someone with gluten intolerance can also consume alsi seed for its benefits.
7) Flax seeds are Flavourless
Flax seeds do not have any strong flavour. Therefore it can be added in any other foods to increase its nutritional benefits. Chia seeds are full of soluble fibre and flax seeds consist of omega fatty acid. Benefits of chia and flax seeds can be taken by adding it in oats or salads.
Also Read: Benefits of various other seeds for Women
Flax seeds benefits and side effects are two sides of the same coin. Find side effects of Flax seeds, here:
Side effects of Flax Seeds
1) Flax seeds cause Gastrointestinal disorders
If flax seeds are consumed in large amounts, it could block the intestines due to the bulk-forming laxative effects of flaxseed. They should be taken with lots of water to prevent this from happening.
Adding flaxseed to the diet in high quantity might increase the number of bowel movements each day. It might also cause gastrointestinal (GI) side effects such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, stomachache, and nausea.
2) Flax seeds' Interaction with medicines
Flax seed can even interact with drugs. It might slow blood clotting. Taking flaxseed along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Flaxseed can decrease blood sugar levels. Diabetes medications are also used to lower blood sugar. Taking flaxseed along with diabetes medications might cause your blood sugar to be too low. Flaxseeds are rich in fibre and can block the digestive tract, which might prevent the absorption of certain medication and supplements.
3) Flax seeds during Pregnancy
Flax seeds can induce menstrual cycles due to their estrogen-like effect, so expectant mothers are not recommended to eat these seeds. It may pose adverse effects on pregnancy, including an increased risk for premature birth. It is also not a good option for women trying to conceive. You can also try beetroot for pregnancy.
Also Read: What Foods you should avoid during pregnancy?
4) Flax seed Allergy
There is a possibility you may notice an allergy to flax seeds and flaxseed oil. In that case You should discontinue and avoid the use of flaxseed oil, if there are symptoms of itching, swelling, redness, or hives when you ingest it. You may also notice vomiting and nausea. Consult a medical professional immediately if your reaction to flaxseed oil causes your throat to tighten or shortness of breath. These are symptoms of anaphylactic shock.
Recommended dosage of Flax seeds
The recommended dosage for flaxseed is 1 tablespoon that is 15 grams.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6567199/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4152533/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/why-not-flaxseed-oil
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/224889754_Flax_Seed_A_Potential_Medicinal_Food
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpheart.00400.2017
