EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FLAX SEEDS
Flax seeds are small oil seeds that are rich in Omega-3 fats, fiber and protein. The seeds come from a flowering plant that belongs to the Family Linaceae.
Flax seeds are known for their immense health benefits, and we'll look at some of them;
[1] They're a good source of omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fats are essential fats that have numerous functions in the body. It is important to note that the omega-3 fats are obtained from our diet because the body can't produce them. Alpha-linoleic acid, ALA, is the main type of omega-3 fatty acids that is found in plants. Other types such as Eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA), and Docosahexaenoic acid( DHA)are mostly found from animal products like fatty fish. Omega-3 fats are important in nourishing brain function, heart health and reducing inflammation.
[2] They're very high in fibre (relieving constipation)and low in carbs
Constipation refers to the state when someone has reduced bowel movements and have a difficulty in passing stools. Other foods rich in fibre such as oats, cereals, fruits and vegetables, help to easien the bowel movements
[3] They greatly improve digestive Health by boosting the growth of normal gut flora
💡Flax seeds vs Yoghurt 🤷🤷
When we hear gut flora, we definitely think of yoghurt 😄 We all know how yoghurt is the number one recommended drink which has probiotics that are good for gut flora growth. Today, we get to see how flax seeds also do their work to improve digestive health
Our gut has normal flora/bacteria which exist naturally in the body and are good for our health. These bacteria are good because when they're present, the bad bacteria cannot invade the system or survive, they fight the bad infective bacteria 🦠🦠
Frequent use of flax seeds helps in producing the intestinal flora that our bodies need. Due to their high fiber content, they get broken down in the gut and provide for the good thriving of the gut Flora.
💡Remember, a healthy gut is constipation free, has no loose stools, diarrhoea free bowel, free of haemarrhoids and abdominal pain.
[4] They contain fatty acids and B vitamins that help in healthy hair growth
How can we miss talking about the hair. To all the ladies, in making a simple flax seed gel at home for your hair;
📌Add two tablespoons of flax seeds to one cup of water in a sufuria and heat shortly until you see some foam/gluey state when you check with a spoon. Allow them to cool and filter using a thin muslim cloth. Apply your gely- filtrate to your hair- scalp and strands, cover for 30 minutes and then rinse. Its easy to make at home, and very good for your hair. You can as well buy flax seeds rich oils/butters, hair conditioners and shampoos.
Flax seeds help with strengthening the hair from the roots, reduces hair thinning and split ends, increases its density and reduces itchy scalp.
[5] They're very rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants help to eliminate toxic materials and waste from the body
[6] They help in lowering cholesterol levels and are gluten free
HOW TO USE: Flax seeds are more effective when crushed to powder; The seeds are very slippery in nature. Add the powder to your smoothie, water, soup, fruit salad, porridge, oatmeal, Granola, snack bars, and in cakes when baking.
️💡Funfact: The 'flax egg' is made from mixing crushed flax seeds with water to make a gluey consistent mixture. Vegans majorly use the' flax egg' as a binding agent especially in baking, and it has proven to do a good job.
Let's keep our tracts healthy🤗
Our Standard Review
Date created: 16 Aug 2024 06:05:35
Critical Evaluation: The article presents a series of claims about the health benefits of flax seeds, which are generally logical and coherent. Each point is supported by basic explanations of the benefits, such as the importance of omega-3 fatty acids for brain and heart health. However, the article lacks in-depth scientific evidence or references to studies that validate these claims, which weakens its overall argument. For instance, while it mentions that flax seeds improve digestive health, it does not provide specific studies or statistics to support this assertion. The tone is informal and engaging, which may appeal to a broad audience, but it could benefit from a more balanced presentation of potential limitations or side effects of flax seeds. The article appears to be mostly unbiased, focusing on the positive aspects of flax seeds without mentioning any potential drawbacks. In the real world, the ideas presented could encourage readers to incorporate flax seeds into their diets, but without proper evidence, the claims should be approached with caution.
Quality of Information: The language used in the article is straightforward and accessible, making it easy for a general audience to understand. Technical terms like "omega-3 fatty acids" and "gut flora" are briefly explained, which is helpful for readers unfamiliar with these concepts. However, the article lacks citations or references to credible sources, which raises concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the information presented. There are no indications of fake news or misleading information, but the absence of scientific backing makes some claims feel less trustworthy. The article does not seem to follow strict ethical standards in research, as it does not provide sources for its assertions. While it introduces some practical applications of flax seeds, such as recipes and hair care tips, it does not significantly contribute new ideas to the field of nutrition. Instead, it reiterates commonly known benefits of flax seeds without offering fresh insights.
Use of Evidence and References: The article does not reference any studies, articles, or experts to support its claims about flax seeds. This lack of evidence is a significant gap, as it leaves the reader without a way to verify the information. For example, while it discusses the benefits of antioxidants and their role in detoxification, it does not provide any scientific studies or data to substantiate this claim. More robust evidence would strengthen the article's credibility and provide readers with a clearer understanding of the benefits of flax seeds.
Further Research and References: Further research could explore the specific health benefits of flax seeds in greater detail, including controlled studies that measure their effects on various health conditions. Additionally, examining potential side effects or interactions with medications could provide a more comprehensive view. Readers interested in this topic may benefit from exploring peer-reviewed journals on nutrition and health, as well as reputable health websites that offer evidence-based information.
Questions for Further Research:
- What specific studies support the health benefits of flax seeds?
- Are there any potential side effects associated with consuming flax seeds?
- How do flax seeds compare to other sources of omega-3 fatty acids?
- What is the recommended daily intake of flax seeds for optimal health benefits?
- Can flax seeds interact with any medications or health conditions?
- How do the antioxidant properties of flax seeds compare to other foods?
- What are the long-term effects of regular flax seed consumption on digestive health?
- Are there any differences in health benefits between whole flax seeds and ground flax seeds?
- How do cultural dietary practices influence the consumption of flax seeds?
- What are the environmental impacts of flax seed production?
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