In the article we will discuss flax seeds, their benefits and harms, and tell you how to take them correctly for medicinal purposes and for weight loss. By applying our tips, you can improve your body health, lose extra pounds and improve the appearance of your skin and hair.
What are flaxseeds? Translated from Latin, the word "linen" means "the most useful". And that's not surprising. The plant is used in cosmetics, medicine and cooking. Its stems are used to produce substances that are highly hygroscopic and environmentally friendly.
Flaxseed is considered a valuable dietary supplement and panacea against many different diseases. How are flax seeds harvested? The raw materials are collected in September. The fruits are collected (flattened spherical boxes) containing about 10 seeds. Seeds removed from the boxes must be dried in places protected from direct sunlight.
How to store flax seeds
Flaxseeds are susceptible to spoilage and oxidation. Therefore, store the product in the refrigerator in airtight containers. Whole grain products retain all their beneficial properties for 1 year in the refrigerator.
When buying flax seeds in the store, pay attention to the following:
- expiry date;
- integrity of the packaging (it must be vacuum sealed);
- no signs of moisture.
Composition and beneficial properties of flax seeds
Flax seeds contain a full set of useful elements necessary to maintain the normal functioning of the human body:
- Vitamins: groups B, C, E, K, PP and choline;
- Macroelements: Ca, K, Mg, Na and P;
- Trace elements: Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and Se;
- polyunsaturated fatty acids: Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9;
- insoluble and soluble fiber;
- Mono- and disaccharides.
- Medicinal properties of flax seeds
Traditional medicine recommends using flax seeds to treat a variety of diseases.
A unique product helps with therapy:
- Pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, colitis, intestinal atony, enteritis, ulcerative lesions, food poisoning, constipation);
- diseases of the respiratory tract and throat;
- weakened immune system;
- inflammation of the bladder and kidneys;
- sinusitis;
- Hypertension;
- diabetes mellitus;
- liver dysfunction;
- Tuberculosis;
- parasite infestation;
- Arthritis, gout, rheumatism, heel spurs;
- neuralgic pain;
- furunculosis, barley, burns;
- oncological diseases;
- Cardiovascular diseases (atherosclerosis, stroke, thrombophlebitis, ischemia, myocardial infarction).
And this is not a complete list of pathologies that flaxseed helps.
Flaxseed oil
The main feature of linseed oil is its high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which only enter the body from external sources. It is better to buy a cold-pressed product. During this production, useful substances are preserved. High-quality oil contains no sediment and has a pleasantly sweet, nutty taste. When exposed to light and heat, the oil oxidizes (it begins to taste bitter). This product is extremely harmful to the body and can even cause cancer.
Flaxseed meal
Many recipes use ground flax seeds. You can make flour yourself using a coffee grinder or buy a finished product.
Flaxseed, flour and oil
Homemade flaxseed meal has a short shelf life – just 6-16 weeks if stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The store-bought product does not contain oil components, so it can be stored for a long time.
Flaxseed – benefit or harm
The main advantage of flaxseed is its high content of 3 main components:
- Fiber – improves the functioning of the digestive tract and removes harmful cholesterol.
- Polyunsaturated acids – ensure the restoration of the body’s cells and prevent the formation of blood clots.
- Lignans have antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial effects. Restores hormone levels in women.
- The therapeutic effect of flax seeds is enhanced by vitamins (B, E) and microelements (magnesium, iodine, manganese, calcium, chromium, potassium, copper, iron).
Benefits for the body
Flaxseeds have extensive positive effects on the body:
- lower cholesterol;
- strengthen the immune system;
- normalize liver function;
- protect against vitamin deficiency;
- reduce sugar;
- reduce the risk of blood clots;
- normalize high blood pressure;
- prevent the formation of tumors (including malignant ones);
- cleanse the intestines;
- activate peristalsis;
- improve fat metabolism;
- remove harmful substances and toxins from the body;
- ensure improvement of skin and hair structure at the cellular level;
- promote rapid healing of the skin and mucous membranes;
- eliminate sexual dysfunction in men;
- regulate hormone levels and thereby improve the condition during menopause;
- have a laxative effect;
- relieves severe dry cough.
Contraindications
The use of flaxseed is prohibited for:
- intestinal obstruction;
- individual intolerance;
- stones in the urinary or gallbladder;
- worsening of cholecystitis or pancreatitis;
- liver cirrhosis, hepatitis;
- Endometritis, uterine fibroid, polycystic disease in women;
- Inflammation of the prostate in men.
Abusing the product may cause flatulence and diarrhea. The permissible daily dose is 5 to 50 g.
How to take flax seeds for weight loss
Many women actively use flax seeds to lose weight. Nutritionists consider this method to be very effective and explain how the product works:
- It swells in the stomach and creates a feeling of satiety despite its small volume.
- Fiber stimulates peristalsis and thus promotes rapid intestinal cleansing.
- Acids activate metabolic processes and accelerate fat burning.
- Flax seeds for weight loss are used in the form of a decoction or infusion, as well as as an additional ingredient for jelly, cocktails, tea, compotes, dietary dishes, etc.
Flaxseed drinks prepare the body to digest food, activate metabolism and prevent the absorption of fats through the stomach walls. To lose weight, take ground flax seeds (2 tablespoons) with a glass of water twice a day. To enhance the therapeutic effect, drink plenty of fluids (at least 2 liters) throughout the day.
Flax decoction
Pour 2 tbsp. l. Bring flaxseeds to the boil with 500 ml of boiling water and cook over low heat for about half an hour, then let the broth cool and strain. This drink should be drunk 25-30 minutes before meals, 100 ml.
Flax infusion
The infusion is prepared at night, pour 2 tbsp into a thermos. l. Pour 1 liter of boiling water over flaxseed and let it steep until morning. Drink the strained drink 20 minutes before meals in an amount of 100-150 ml.
Drinks with flax seeds for weight loss
In addition to the usual decoction or infusion, you can add flax seeds to your favorite drinks, the effect will be no less effective. Compote – Cook berry compote, add flax seeds, equivalent to 1 tbsp. l. Seeds per 500 ml jelly (compote), let cool. The jelly should be liquid at first, as it will thicken after adding flax.
Tea – Add 1 tsp to brewed tea. Flax seeds and green tea are better for losing weight. You can drink this drink no more than twice a day.
Cocktail – 250 ml carrot juice, 1 tsp. Flaxseed oil and 1 tbsp. l. Add flax seeds, a few drops of lemon juice. This cocktail can be drunk three times a day. For best results, use it to replace a lunch and dinner dish.
Flax drinks should always be fresh, the shelf life of ready-made decoctions and infusions is 24 hours; after 24 hours they lose their beneficial properties and can be dangerous. Use the decoction or infusion for two weeks, then take a ten-day break.
With the help of flax, you can eliminate the consequences of an unbalanced, strenuous diet and restore the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. If you use flaxseed correctly, you can lose about 2 kilograms per week with virtually no change to your diet. Flaxseeds contain a lot of fiber and are low in carbohydrates. So once they're in your stomach, the seeds start to swell, making you feel full with less food intake. In addition, flax accelerates metabolic processes, the body burns more calories and burns accumulated fat reserves.
Flaxseed for intestinal cleansing
Flax seeds help cleanse the intestines of toxins, reduce sludge in the body and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
Classic cleaning ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 50g.
- Water – 1L.
Preparation: Pour boiling water over flax seeds in a glass container. Make sure you close it with a lid. Wrap the container tightly and let it brew for 6 hours. Strain before use.
Directions: Drink the first serving (150 ml) on an empty stomach 30 minutes before breakfast. You can add some honey to the drink. The entire infusion (1 l) must be drunk during the day. Only drink the drink warm. Do this cleanse daily for 2 weeks. You can repeat the course only after 6 months.
Result: The infusion cleanses the body of toxins, lowers cholesterol levels, relieves constipation and activates intestinal motility. Flax mucus ensures the healing of mucous membrane ulcers. Regular consumption of the drink cleanses the blood and liver and improves skin condition.
Cleansing with kefir
Flaxseeds with kefir
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 15-45 g.
- Low-fat kefir – 100 ml.
Preparation: Mix kefir with flax seeds. You can use whole wheat or crushed flour. How to use: Use flax seeds with kefir in the morning on an empty stomach instead of breakfast. The cleansing course lasts 3 weeks. Do it according to the following scheme: in the first week use 15 g of seeds with kefir, in the second 30 g. In the third step, increase the amount of seeds to 45 g. You can repeat the course only after six months.
Result: Flaxseeds with kefir remove toxins, improve the complexion, restore intestinal flora and activate peristalsis. Thanks to the normalization of metabolism, weight loss occurs.
It does not cause any particular harm, but it is not advisable to take it when:
- pregnant woman;
- people with gallbladder problems;
- those suffering from exacerbation of pancreatitis, colitis and bloating.
Be sure to consult your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- pancreatitis;
- Cholecystitis
- liver cirrhosis;
- Hepatitis;
- gallstones (causes colic);
- low pressure;
- intestinal inflammation.
Consult your doctor if you are taking the following medications:
- from allergies,
- antidepressants,
- Birth control pills.
Flaxseed promotes blood clotting, can lower blood pressure or slow down the absorption of medications. The use of flaxseed oil and flaxseed may be incompatible with other medications.
Including flaxseed in your diet provides:
- normalization of hormone levels;
- Fight against chronic diseases of the digestive system;
- reducing constipation;
- Minimizing the development of serious diseases of the nervous system in the fetus;
- Protecting the baby from viral infections.
It is strictly forbidden to take flax seeds without consulting your gynecologist. Despite the significant benefits, the product can cause uterine tone, which can lead to miscarriage or premature birth. Only a doctor can prescribe and choose the right regimen for taking flaxseeds for pregnant women.
While breastfeeding
Active use of flax seeds during breastfeeding is undesirable. Some substances that enter a child's body with milk can affect its functioning. But sometimes doctors recommend flax seeds to nursing mothers in small quantities (for certain pathologies). Pregnant and breastfeeding women can best consume the product in baked goods or salads.
For constipation
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 2 tsp…
- Warm boiled water – 1 tbsp.
Preparation: Flaxseeds can be ground if the whole grain is difficult to swallow. Application: Take flaxseed with water in the evening. Repeat the process for 2-3 days. Result: The product activates peristalsis and contributes to the natural cleansing of the intestines. For chronic constipation, 7 days of treatment is recommended.
Ground flaxseed
With pancreatitis
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 2 tbsp. l.
- Water – 0. 4 ml.
Honey – to taste, but no more than 2 tbsp. l.
Preparation: Grind the raw materials and pour boiling water over them. Cook the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes and then let the mixture stand for 1 hour. Strain the flaxseed jelly through a sieve. Add honey to your taste. Directions: Take 200 ml of the drink twice a day on an empty stomach 15-20 minutes before meals. The duration of treatment is 3 weeks to several months.
Result: Flaxseed jelly has an anti-inflammatory and astringent effect on the pancreas. Fiber activates the removal of toxins and accelerates metabolism.
With gastritis
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 1 tbsp. l.
- Water – 0. 5 l.
Preparation: Pour boiling water over the raw materials. Leave the product on for 1 hour, shaking occasionally. Strain the drink through a sieve. How to use: Drink the infusion twice a day on an empty stomach, 200-250 ml. Continue treatment for 1 month. Result: The infusion has an anti-inflammatory effect. The treatment eliminates pain, nausea and heartburn.
For diabetes
Ingredients:
- Seeds – 2 tbsp. l.
- Boiling water – 100 ml.
Preparation: Pour boiling water over flax seeds. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. Then add 150 ml of boiled, chilled water. Application: Drink the infusion once a day - in the morning on an empty stomach or 20 minutes before meals. The treatment lasts 10 days – 1 month. Result: The drink reduces sugar well. Since the seeds contain monosaccharides, people with diabetes should only consume flaxseeds after consulting a doctor.
To lower cholesterol levels
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 1 tbsp. l.
- Aloe juice – 0. 5 tbsp. l.
- Water – 1 tbsp.
Preparation: Grind the seeds. Pour boiling water over it and let it steep for about 2 hours. Add aloe juice. The drink does not need to be strained. Directions: Take 0. 5 cups in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening 4 hours after meals. Continue therapy for 1-3 months. Result: The drink normalizes cholesterol levels, improves the condition of blood vessels and prevents the development of atherosclerosis.
Preparation of flax seeds for use in dietary dishes containing flax seeds for weight loss:
Hercules with linseed
Soak 2 tbsp. l. Flax seeds in warm water. Cook porridge from 100-150 g of oat flakes, add swollen flax seeds and stir. If desired, you can add a small amount of finely chopped fruit or dried fruit; Apples and plums are perfect.
Porridge with sprouted wheat and linseed
3 TBSP. l. sprouted wheat and 1 tbsp. l. Soak flax seeds in boiling water for two hours, then drain the remaining liquid. Add 50 g of coarsely grated apples and a few dates, previously soaked in water, to the porridge.
Dried fruits and flax seeds for weight loss
Soak 2 tbsp. l. Soak flaxseeds in chilled water to a temperature of 40-45 degrees and wait until they swell. Pass dried fruits scalded with boiling water through a meat grinder: prunes, dates and dried apricots - 3 pieces each. all. Add flax seeds and 1 tbsp to the resulting minced meat. l. Rice flour, mix the ingredients thoroughly (if desired, you can add a little cocoa powder, but the dish will be more calorie). Form into small balls, roll them in coconut and put them in the fridge for a few hours. The most delicious dietary dessert is ready!
Flaxseed in cosmetics
The useful product can be used externally. It allows you to eliminate a number of cosmetic problems and ensures a healthy appearance of skin and hair.
Mask for the face
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 1 tbsp. l.
- Boiling water – 0. 5 tbsp.
- Cream (for sensitive and dry skin) – 1 tbsp. l.
- Oatmeal (for oily and problem skin) – 1 tbsp. l.
Preparation: Pour boiling water over flax seeds. Simmer the product in a water bath for 15 minutes. Strain the broth. Add the desired component (oatmeal or cream).
Application: Apply the product to clean facial skin. Wash off after 15 minutes. Repeat the mask 2-3 times a week. Result: The product cleanses the skin, nourishes it, narrows the pores and eliminates oiliness. The mask smoothes wrinkles and normalizes metabolism in the epidermis.
Hair mask
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 2 tbsp. l.
- Boiling water – 125 ml.
Preparation: Pour boiling water over the raw materials and beat the mixture thoroughly in a blender. How to use: Apply a warm mask to the roots and along the hair. Put a plastic cap on your head and wrap it with a towel. Wash off the mask after 2 hours. Repeat the process 2 times a week. Result: The mask ensures silky and supple hair. It strengthens the hair follicle and improves hair growth.
Hair after linen mask
Flaxseed - Recipes.
In alternative medicine there are universal remedies that can be used to treat and prevent various pathologies.
Kissel
Recipe description: Kissel has neither taste nor smell. To ensure a pleasant taste, add honey, cinnamon, vanilla, berries and chicory.
You will need:
- Flax seeds - 1 tbsp. l. ;
- Water – 0. 5 l. ;
- Cinnamon, honey, berries, chicory, vanilla – to taste.
Preparation: Pour boiling water over the seeds. Let the mixture stand for 8 hours. The jelly does not need to be strained. Add cinnamon, vanilla, honey and berries. Calorie content: per 100 g of jelly (in pure form, without additives) – 5. 2 kcal and 100 g of jelly with the addition of honey (1 tsp) – 8. 4 kcal.
decoction
Description of the recipe: The decoction provides a comprehensive cleansing of the body, normalizes the functioning of the digestive system, cleanses the blood and liver, and improves the functioning of the kidneys and urinary system. It is better to add sour juice to the drink.
You will need:
- Seeds - 1 tbsp. l. ;
- Water – 0. 5 l. ;
- sour juice (pomegranate, cherry, lemon) – 1 tsp.
Preparation: Cover linseeds with water. Cook the mixture in a water bath for 30 minutes. Then wrap the container with the broth in a warm cloth and leave the solution for another 3-4 hours. Strain the broth. Add sour juice. Calorie content: per 100 g of decoction with pomegranate juice – 5. 4 kcal.
What you should remember
You may only consume flax seeds after consulting a doctor. The product brings great benefits to the body, but can also cause harm. The daily dose of seeds is 5-50 g. Abuse leads to diarrhea and bloating. Store flax products (seeds, flour, oil) in a dark, cool place and always in an airtight container.