Flax seeds: Tiny seeds with huge power

In my house, my mother roasts flax seeds and stores it in a container mixed with fennel seeds or ‘Saunf’. After lunch or dinner, as it is every Indian household trend to eat Saunf, I get an extra benefit because of the flax seeds I eat along with Saunf. Flax seed is a power pack of all major nutrients in a small seed. I found a drastic change in my body and levels of energy. I have started feeling more active and energetic on consuming it in my routine. So I thought of sharing the benefits of flax seeds with all of you so that you too involve this tiny seed in your diet routine and see huge changes in yourself. Power pack of Nutrients Yes true. It has immense amounts of nutritive content in it and can be very useful for keeping your body sufficed of all forms of nutrients it requires. About an ounce of flax seeds contains Omeg-3, 8 grams of fibre, 6 grams of protein, 31% Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of Vitamin B1 and 35% RDA of Manganese. In addition to above-enlisted nutrients, it also has potassium, copper, selenium, vitamin B6, phosphorus, iron and zinc. The above nutrients help to maintain regular blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Helps to get flawless skin and hair Hair and skin require right amount of proteins for their growth and is found in abundance in flax seeds. Flax seeds also contain alpha-Linolenic fatty acids that provide the essential fats for healthy hair and skin. Also, it has B vitamins that reduce the dryness which causes dandruff. It helps prevent acne, rosacea and eczema. Flax seeds also reduce dryness in eyes. Rich source of antioxidants The anti-oxidants present in flax seeds are called Lignans. They have polyphenols that have anti-aging properties and helps to maintain hormone balance and cellular health. It has antiviral and anti-bacterial properties that help to increase immunity and resistance. It helps the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. Good for digestion It helps in the smooth digestion of ingested food. It has high amounts of mucilage which is a gel-forming fiber that is water soluble and helps to absorb the nutrients. Also, the anti-oxidants present in flax seeds have fiber related polyphenols that improve digestion. The alpha-Linolenic fatty acids keep the lining of the digestive tract protected and enhances the gastrointestinal performance.   Keeps safe from diseases Flax seeds are very much beneficial for women’s health as it prevents breast cancer and naturally balances hormones. It also prevents and fights back colon, prostate, and ovarian cancer. The anti-inflammatory property of the alpha-Linolenic fatty acid protects the blood vessels from any damage. Also, it keeps the arteries healthy and clear of any clogging. This keeps cardiac diseases away and maintains cardiovascular health with checking the levels of cholesterols. **Also too much of anything is harmful so one must restrict consumption of flax seeds to at the most 50 grams a day.