Flax (Alsi) Seeds: The Healthy Indian’s Choice
Staying fit and healthy is one of the many positive trends that our country has seen in the past decade or so. Today, it is heartwarming to see people involved in various forms of exercising like weight-lifting, running, jogging, yoga etc. And with the rise of online platforms selling organic and natural food, the emphasis on a healthy diet had never been this strong.
People are always on the lookout for food options that keep them healthy. One such option, even you should consider bringing to your kitchen, is Flax Seed.
Also known as Alsi seeds, these tiny seeds are power packed with a bunch of nutrients. With their high content of fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, they help in fighting various ailments including diabetes and heart diseases.
Listed below are a few health benefits of Alsi seeds that cannot be neglected:
Rich Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for the healthy functioning of the heart. But, as they are primarily found in seafood and eggs, vegans normally miss on this vital nutrient.
Flax seeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and hence vegans can benefit if they include Flax seeds in their diet.
Aids Digestion and Weight-loss
One of the major reasons for poor digestion is the lack of dietary fiber in the food that is being consumed. And if you are suffering from digestive problems, adding flax seeds to your diet is a good idea as they are a rich source of dietary fiber.
Fiber helps bulk up the stool and keeps waste moving through the intestines, preventing constipation. Also, the high fiber content causes the tummy to feel fuller for a longer period, avoiding cravings and overeating.
Keeps Cholesterol in Check
Flax seeds help to keep a check on cholesterol owing to its high fiber content. While in the digestive system, the soluble fiber in flax seeds traps cholesterol, not allowing it to be absorbed. Moreover, it also absorbs bile acids and results in their extraction.
The liver then has to reproduce the required bile acids for which it uses cholesterol, further reducing it.
Fights Inflammation
Flax seeds contain ALA (alpha-Linolenic acid) which helps to keep a check on pro-inflammatory compounds that causes arthritis pain, joint pain etc. ALA also cures the inflammation in the lungs, making them healthier. This has led to Flax seed oil being used as a home remedy for Asthma.
Skin and Hair Care
The Omega-3 fatty acids present in Flax seeds help cure skin problems like acne and allergies. They also rejuvenate the skin making it supple and glowing.
These acids even benefit the hair by improving their elasticity and hence making them less prone to breakage. Flax seeds are also rich in Vitamin E, which helps prevent graying of the hair.
Gluten-free
A lot of people today suffer from gluten-sensitivity, which is an unwanted reaction to the protein present in gluten. Flax seeds are gluten-free and hence can be used to replace the gluten-rich grains.