Flax seeds: benefits and harm to the body

Flax seeds are often called superfoods, and this is exactly the case when such a characteristic is justified. Flaxseed contains many useful substances, is widely used in traditional medicine and at the same time has earned the recognition of official science. These small and seemingly inconspicuous seeds are an important preventive measure against quite serious diseases, including oncological ones, for example, from breast cancer.

Types of Flax Seeds

Flaxseed is of two types. The most common option is dark brown seeds, but there are also light golden seeds, which are also called white.

What is the difference between white and brown flax seeds

There are no fundamental differences in properties between these two species. However, it is believed that white seeds contain more antioxidants, and therefore it is more beneficial. In addition, dark brown seeds are slightly bitter, and light golden seeds have a milder taste. Neither one nor the other has a pronounced smell. Flaxseed oil from both species has a light pleasant aroma and nutty finish.

White flax seeds are often eaten, especially when it comes to dishes for children. They are easier to add to cereal or granola, because they are not as noticeable as dark brown.

Composition and calorie content

Flaxseed is a high-calorie product. Its energy value is 534 kcal per 100 g. At the same time, flaxseed has a unique composition. It includes:

1. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3, 6 and 9). They are responsible for the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system, help reduce blood pressure and reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol. These substances are an excellent prophylactic against heart attacks and oncological diseases, and they also have a beneficial effect on brain function.
2. Vitamins A and E (themselves antioxidants that slow down the aging process), as well as groups B and F, which are useful for the nervous system, have a positive effect on the condition of the skin, hair and nails. Also, vitamins included in the composition of seeds allow you to more effectively deal with excess weight.
3. Lignans are substances that have a noticeable antifungal and antiviral effect. They are among the phytoestrogens - plant hormone-like substances that in their action resemble female hormones. They help to improve well-being before menstruation or during menopause. Thanks to them, the pain goes away, the mood improves. They have an anticarcinogenic effect, have beneficial effects on reproductive function.
4. Soluble fiber is what makes flaxseed good for the intestines.It helps to normalize the digestive processes, relieves constipation, strengthens the body's natural immune defense. Fiber of this type with prolonged processing by the body increases, resulting in a feeling of satiety - this helps to reduce appetite and avoid additional snacks.
5. Phytosterols are hormone-like substances found in plants. They generally act in the same way as hormones, including artificial ones, but at the same time are deprived of their shortcomings. Phytosterols help control cholesterol.
6. Polysaccharides are substances that have many useful properties. They help fight pathogens thanks to their enveloping properties. Therefore, they are necessary for gastritis and peptic ulcer.
7. Selenium and lecithin - these two components help accelerate the elimination of toxins from the body. They also improve vision and can inhibit the growth of tumors.

Flaxseeds also contain elements such as copper, phosphorus, magnesium and manganese, the importance of which for the body is difficult to overestimate.

Useful properties of flax seeds

Flaxseed has many beneficial properties. It helps to strengthen the immune system, fights pathogenic microbes, has an anti-inflammatory effect, and normalizes the digestive system.

For women

Flaxseed is very beneficial for women because of its unique composition. First of all, of course, due to the presence of lignans, that is, phytoestrogens, since it is they that have a good effect on reproductive function and protect against breast cancer. In addition, flaxseed contains substances that have a bactericidal effect. This allows them to be used to treat cystitis, inflammatory diseases, pathologies of the cardiovascular system, which are most often found in the fair sex.

For men

Studies show that for men, the risk of raising the level of "bad" cholesterol in the blood and the development of hypertension or other cardiovascular diseases is much higher than for women. That is why they are advised to eat flaxseed - it helps lower cholesterol without taking medication.

In addition, the substances that make up this product significantly reduce the risk of developing prostatitis and prostate cancer. Also, studies conducted in the United States proved that flaxseed is useful for diabetics, since it allows you to lower blood sugar and lose weight as naturally as possible, fixing a stable result. But it is overweight that is often the cause of diabetes.

During pregnancy

Flaxseed is very useful for expectant mothers. It allows you to control weight and supplies the body with polyunsaturated fatty acids, which is very important during pregnancy.

In addition, flaxseed is an excellent prevention of constipation, which affects many future women in the situation. However, some doctors believe that in the third trimester it is better to refuse the use of this product.

When breastfeeding

In the postpartum period, flaxseed is considered beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows you to quickly restore normal hormonal levels, improve the condition of the skin and hair. Secondly, lecithin and B vitamins contained in flax seeds have a beneficial effect on the central nervous system, preventing the development of postpartum depression.

For kids

Doctors have no consensus on the benefits of flaxseed for children. Most agree that adding it to cereal or jelly for babies under the age of three is definitely not worth it.

But a decoction of flaxseed is given even to young children, mainly with constipation. Only in this case, the dosage must be strictly observed. A one-year-old child is not given more than 12-15 drops of such a decoction, a baby up to three years old - up to 1/2 tsp. At seven years old, the child can already drink 1 tsp. decoction.Before use, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician.

The benefits and harms of germinated flax seeds

It would seem that if flax seeds are useful on their own, then why do we need to germinate them? The fact is that when germinating complex biochemical processes are launched, as a result of which fats and proteins are converted to fatty acids and amino acids, respectively. Theoretically, the same processes occur with seeds when they are digested. That is, germinated seeds partially reduce the burden on the digestive system. In addition, new useful substances are released from them, harmful phytic acid is eliminated. As a result, they have a more pronounced immuno-strengthening effect and biostimulating properties.

How to germinate

In some organic food stores, seeds specially designed for germination can be purchased. This is much better than seeds intended directly for growing crops, since the latter can be processed with something to protect against diseases and pests.

You need to take the seeds and place them in a shallow container, and then fill with water so that it covers them almost completely. You can use another method and just put the seeds of flax in a damp cloth. They must be kept in this condition for several days so that they become ready for use. You can treat the seeds with a weak solution of potassium permanganate before germination. It acts as an antiseptic.

Germinated seeds are not subjected to heat treatment so that the biologically active substances contained therein are not destroyed. But sprouts can be safely added to salads, rice dishes, and vegetable soups.

The maximum dose of seedlings is 50-100 g per day. But the body may not be ready even for such an amount. In this case, it is recommended to accustom him gradually. For example, you can start with 25-30 g and then gradually increase the dosage. If you are intolerant of these seedlings, you need to stop taking them. If a person suffers from chronic diseases of the digestive tract, then during the exacerbation of such pathologies, the product can not be consumed.

What is useful flax seed oil

Oil is produced from flaxseed by cold pressing. In this case, the product is considered no less useful than the seeds themselves. Flaxseed oil, like its raw materials, contains many essential substances - these are unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and other components. In its useful properties, it approaches fish oil, only linseed oil is much tastier, and in terms of fatty acid content it is not inferior to pumpkin and olive oil, but it is cheaper.

Interestingly, you can buy a product in a supermarket or in a pharmacy. Flaxseed oil is used not only for food, but also as an external remedy, mainly in cosmetology for the preparation of various masks. In addition, it is believed that it helps with small cuts.

Flaxseed oil is often regarded as a dietary product. It is involved in the normalization of metabolic processes, it is taken as a prophylactic against cardiovascular diseases and pathologies of the digestive tract. The plant hormone lignan contained in it has a beneficial effect on the reproductive system. Choline (Vitamin B4), which is part of it, is considered an excellent anti-stress agent. Also, the above-mentioned fatty acids improve the condition of articular tissues and cartilage.

Flaxseed oil does not tolerate heating, therefore it is impossible to fry on it, otherwise all useful substances will be destroyed. The best use for it would be to add fresh vegetables to salads, it can also be mixed with sour cream, serving as a sauce. Flaxseed oil has a pleasant, but somewhat specific taste. It is best combined with cereals, potatoes, salted cottage cheese mixed with chopped spicy herbs.

You can use linseed oil for weight loss. To do this, it is recommended to add 1-2 tsp. product in the composition of the morning kefir drink.Use oil with caution, since it is a high-calorie product. Its energy value is 900 kcal per 100 g.

When storing oil, you should remember that it cannot be kept in the light - it quickly deteriorates. It is best to keep an open bottle in a cool dark place. Shelf life is no more than 1 month.

Flaxseed Urbech: benefits and harms

Many probably heard about the traditional Dagestan dessert - urbec. It is prepared from various products, one of the most common options is flax urbec. It is a thick chocolate-colored paste (if it was made from dark seeds), which has an oily consistency. This dish can be smeared on bread or cookies instead of jam or condensed milk. But the flaxseed-based paste itself remains tasteless, so some floral honey is added to it.

Urbech can be served not only with bread, but also with pancakes, cheesecakes, cereals, unsweetened cottage cheese. Some housewives even serve it to cheese and fruit.

Urbek has all the beneficial properties that are inherent in flaxseed:

1. Normalizes metabolism, including lipid metabolism.
2. It has a beneficial effect on the gastric mucosa, especially with gastritis and peptic ulcer.
3. Helps establish digestion due to its high fiber content.
4. Provides healthy skin, hair and nails.
5. Reduces the level of "bad" cholesterol in the blood, prevents cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
6. Improves the condition of the musculoskeletal system, increases the elasticity of muscles and ligament tissues.

Urbech is believed to be useful in infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. For treatment, it is used with milk.

At the same time, the dish has the same disadvantages as flaxseed. This is a strong choleretic effect, because of which it can not be used by people with acute cholecystitis or kidney stones. In addition, it can also cause allergies.

Urbech is considered a satisfying product, but it can be consumed even by athletes, subject to certain restrictions. Children are given no more than 1 tsp. per day, adults can eat 1 tbsp. This is quite enough to make the dish useful and at the same time not cause any side effects.

The benefits of flaxseed flour

Another useful product from flax seeds is the so-called flaxseed flour. It is considered the best choice for weight loss, since its energy value is only 270 kcal per 100 g. Eating dishes prepared on the basis of flaxseed allows you to improve metabolism and normalize digestion.

Although theoretically it is possible to grind seeds into flour at home, it is better to buy a product produced in the factory. It retained all the useful substances, including amino acids and mineral elements like zinc, magnesium and potassium. In addition, under industrial conditions, it is possible to extract all excess oils from the product, which is very important for its further storage and use. By the way, it is still recommended to keep an open bag with flour in the refrigerator.

If it is decided to grind flaxseed into flour yourself, it is better to do this in small portions so that it does not have time to deteriorate.

Flaxseed flour can be used for cooking different dishes. For example, it is added to pastries, but it does not replace wheat flour, but butter and eggs, so that a beautiful golden crust quickly appears on buns and pies. It is enough to add only 10% of flax flour to improve the taste of baking and make it more magnificent. Baking is considered more useful, in which flaxseed flour is mixed with wheat in a 1: 1 ratio. However, then the pies and buns acquire a brown tint and a more pronounced taste. It is also worth noting that linseed flour allows you to maintain the softness and freshness of bread longer.

This product is also added to cutlets, casseroles and even soups. Flaxseed flour can also be mixed with traditional cereals for cooking porridge.

How to take flax seeds for weight loss

Flax seeds are not in vain called superfood - in spite of a sufficiently high calorie content, they help to lose weight. In principle, flaxseed does not affect fat stores. However, its unique composition is much more effective than most fat-burning drugs.

As noted above, this superfood contains many unsaturated acids, as well as vitamins, phytoestrogens and polysaccharides. This allows you to speed up metabolism, normalize lipid metabolism, and toxins get rid of intestinal motility and reduce blood glucose levels. In addition, flaxseed reduces appetite (the fiber contained in it swells in the stomach and causes a feeling of fullness) and helps to remove excess fluid. Based on the above features of the product, you should not expect instant weight loss from it. The advantage of this tool is that weight loss occurs smoothly, without damage to health, exclusively in a natural way, and the result can be fixed for a long time.

But to get such an effect, you need to organize a systematic intake of flaxseed. First you need to consult with a nutritionist, to clarify whether there are any contraindications and restrictions.

For weight loss, flax seeds can be taken in any form. The easiest option is to chew a small amount and drink with water, which works quite effectively. There are studies that show that with daily use of 1-2 tbsp. seeds per month, you can lose 2 kg of excess weight (and in the presence of physical activity and more). But doctors consider this prescription not too useful. It is better to prepare salads with flaxseed, seasoning them with unsweetened yogurt, make various drinks based on this superfood, etc.

It is worth paying attention to such options for consuming seeds for weight loss:

1. Decoction. It differs from the therapeutic one by longer preparation time and lower concentration - 1 tbsp. seed in 1.5 cups of water. It is simmered for about half an hour, stirring constantly, then it is cooled and divided into three doses of 0.5 cup immediately before meals.
2. The infusion is characterized by an even weaker concentration - 1 tbsp. seeds per 400 ml of water. Such an amount is better to insist in a thermos. After that, the drink is filtered and taken in the same way as a decoction.
3. Kissel. As a basis, it is recommended to take berry jelly, already ready, in which add 1 tbsp. ground seeds in a glass of drink. Insist it for 10-15 minutes, then drink. In fact, this is not a drink, but a dish that replaces a meal.
4. Dried fruits compote. This drink is brewed without sugar, added to 1 liter of not more than 1 tbsp. ground seeds, bring to a boil and cool. Drinking is recommended little by little, in between meals.

And, of course, on the basis of kefir and flaxseed, you can cook a smoothie, the recipe of which will be discussed below.

Practice shows that losing weight on flaxseed not only allows you to lose weight, but also improves the condition of the skin and hair. The person feels better, he no longer has bowel problems that are characteristic of overweight.

But you can’t use flaxseed on an ongoing basis for weight loss, otherwise it can cause diarrhea. It is recommended to take any of the above drinks for two weeks, then take a break for 7 days and repeat the course. And so - no longer than four months, but all this time it is advisable to be observed by a doctor.

Flax seeds in medicine

The need for flaxseed in medicine is still a matter of debate.

With diabetes

Flax seeds, due to their chemical composition, have the ability to smoothly lower blood glucose levels. Therefore, they are allowed to take with diabetes, but not at the same time as the medications prescribed by the doctor.

You can take the infusion, for the preparation of which, in equal proportions, use string beans without grains, blueberries, flax seeds and oats straw (ideally, they should have been collected at the ear stage). Measure out 3 tbsp. the resulting mixture (it is recommended to grind the flax seeds in advance), pour 750 ml of boiling water, bring to a boil and leave over low heat for 15 minutes. Then cooled and filtered. Take such an infusion should be 1/3 cup three times a day with meals. This can only be done after consulting a doctor. Perhaps a specialist will increase the dose to 1/2 cup.

If all the rules are observed, the patient will feel fine, he will disappear with a feeling of constant dry mouth, he will not feel thirsty as before.

Important: glycemic index of flax seeds - 35 units.

With pancreatitis

This is a disease of the pancreas, an organ that is involved in the production of insulin. Therefore, the ability of flaxseed to saturate and provide vitamins without increasing blood sugar, this disease is very important. The enveloping effect allows you to take care of the gastric mucosa and the healing of damaged gastrointestinal tissues. Nevertheless, with pancreatitis, this product is used with caution, mainly in the form of decoctions and infusions. In the acute form of the disease, flaxseed is completely contraindicated.

With gastritis

As already noted, flax seeds have enveloping properties. Therefore, they are considered an excellent remedy for gastritis with high acidity, because they protect the mucous membranes from the destructive effect of gastric juice. However, in this case, it is not the seeds themselves that are consumed, but the mucus. It is prepared by pouring seeds with hot water and actively shaking the mixture for 15 minutes. Below the recipe will be discussed in more detail. You can’t chew flaxseed with gastritis, its particles are too coarse and can injure tissues.

For the intestines

Although flaxseed is good for the intestines, in acute diseases of this organ it is not recommended to use this product, especially in its entirety. Peristalsis increases, and if there are problems, this does not always give a good effect.

For constipation

With constipation, flaxseed is considered an excellent remedy, because it improves intestinal motility. You can use it only after consulting a doctor, if constipation is caused by this reason. Moreover, you can drink the decoctions and infusions described above or cook jelly and cereals. The main thing is not to abuse it, otherwise constipation will turn into diarrhea.

With gout

There are studies according to which flaxseed helps lower uric acid, which is the main cause of this disease. Therefore, adding flaxseed to your diet for this disease is a good idea. But caution must be exercised, if in doubt - it is better to start with decoctions and infusions. They are prepared in the manner described above every day.

With colitis

This is an inflammatory bowel disease in which it is not recommended to take drugs that enhance peristalsis, including flaxseed.

For the liver

Doctors have no consensus on the use of flaxseed for liver diseases. The choleretic effect of seeds can lead to trouble. It is better to consult a doctor.

With hemorrhoids

In this disease, care should be taken. Although flaxseed improves digestion due to fiber, it can also be irritating. It is better to use not the seeds themselves, but a decoction of them.

It is also recommended to take complex fees based on them of various herbs. For example, you can take in equal parts chamomile pharmacy (only dried flowers), grass of sage, yarrow, nettle, shepherd’s bag, peppermint, add the same amount of flax seeds. All of these ingredients are pre-ground. From the mixture, 1 tbsp. and pour boiling water.Insist this remedy in a water bath for 15 minutes. Then cool, filter, divide the resulting amount into three equal portions and drink before eating.

With cholecystitis

In chronic cholecystitis, the same infusion is prescribed as in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. In acute cholecystitis, flaxseed is contraindicated.

The use of flax seeds in folk medicine

In folk medicine, flax seeds are used for a variety of diseases, mainly in the form of decoctions and infusions. For example:

1. To stimulate bile secretion and a slight diuretic effect, as well as food poisoning. Prepare the tool as follows: 1-2 tbsp. pour raw materials with a glass of clean water, bring to a boil, cool, filter, take 2-3 tbsp. thrice a day. The course of treatment should not last more than a month, otherwise there is a risk of developing gallstone disease.
2. With laryngitis. 1 tbsp seeds take a glass of milk, bring to a boil, leave for 10 minutes on low heat, filter. Take 2-3 tbsp. in the morning and at night. Hoarseness and a scratching cough pass quickly.
3. For bronchitis with dry cough, if there is no sputum, take 100 g of ground flaxseed powder and mix with 0.5 l of honey. Such a product should be stored in a jar of dark glass in a cool place. Take it for 1 tsp. 8-10 times a day, and it is advisable to mix with warm water. Since the tool quickly deteriorates, it cannot be prepared for the future. If bronchitis is accompanied by a wet cough, then additional ingredients like anise or ginger should be added to this mixture. The rest of the reception scheme remains unchanged.
4. Flaxseed is also used to heal wounds and burns, for this it is mixed in equal proportions with raw egg white. From this tool make lotions for small burns. However, official medicine insists that in this case there is a high risk of infection, and it is better to turn to ready-made pharmaceutical preparations. Moreover, a folk remedy only slightly reduces pain.

Flax seeds do not have to be taken orally. For pain in the muscles and joints, they are heated in a pan, poured into a tissue bag and applied to the affected area. This will provide dry heat and relieve pain and inflammation.

Also, in folk medicine, linseed oil is widely used as a laxative or diuretic, as well as for all the diseases described above - instead of the seed itself or decoctions of it.

Flax seeds in cosmetology

In cosmetology, flax seeds are used in the form of flour, that is, the powder that is obtained by grinding raw materials in a coffee grinder. If you boil this powder and bring it to a boil, you get something like jelly containing a large amount of nutrients. It is suitable for hair masks, and for products intended for facial skin. Use such jelly can only be freshly prepared, otherwise useful substances will be destroyed.

Flax seed masks for face

There are several recipes. The method of preparation depends on what purpose is needed. For example:

1. Cleansing peeling mask. To prepare it, you need 3 tbsp. chopped oatmeal and as much ground flaxseed. The mixture is poured with hot water and stirred to the consistency of sour cream, and then cooled until it becomes slightly warm. The mask is applied to the face with circular massage movements. Such a peeling will remove all impurities and dead cells. The rest of the prepared mixture can be applied to the skin and left for 10-15 minutes. After that, the mask is washed off with warm water. The skin becomes noticeably fresher and lighter.
2. Nourishing mask for mature skin prone to peeling. Chopped flaxseed is poured with boiling water as to obtain mucus, and insist for 15 minutes. Then the mucous component is drained, a little honey, sour cream and olive oil are added to it, and then mixed. The mask is applied to the skin of the face without restrictions, you can even touch the skin under the eyes. Also, the composition can be used for sensitive skin on the neck.Thanks to antioxidants, flaxseed will give it elasticity and slow down aging. The product is kept on the skin for 10-15 minutes, then rinsed thoroughly.
3. Mask for normal skin. It can be used often enough, for example, twice a week, because unlike finished lifts, it does not contain radical components. At the same time, flaxseed tightens the skin and provides it with vitamins. For this mask, mucus is used, filtered from the decoction, as in the previous recipe. Only mix it with a spoon of cosmetic clay suitable for this type of skin, for example, with blue. The product is evenly applied to the skin of the face and left for 15-20 minutes, and then washed off with warm water.

The advantage of flaxseed masks is that they are almost universal, as they are suitable for any age. With caution, they should be used only for owners of oily skin, in which such funds can provoke increased production of sebum, if you do not balance this with some ingredients like cosmetic clay or lemon juice.

Hair masks

No less useful are hair masks based on flaxseed:

1. Stimulating hair growth. Take 2–4 tsp ground seed, depending on the length of the curls, mixed with hot water at the rate of 3/4 cup for each spoon and beat until smooth. This is most conveniently done with a blender. A couple drops of your favorite essential oil are added to the finished mixture, cinnamon, orange or lavender is suitable. The product is applied to the scalp and hair along the entire length. The head is wrapped in plastic wrap and a towel on top. The mask is held for an hour and a half, but the result is worth it. The course consists of 5-10 procedures.
2. Against dandruff and itching. 1 tbsp ground seeds take a glass of boiling water, brew in a thermos and insist for several hours. It turns out a mass similar to jelly. Slime from it needs to be traced and applied to the scalp. The mask is kept for an hour, then washed off with warm water.

Flaxseed is also used as a decoction - they rinse their hair, adding essential oils and other herbal ingredients. Moreover, they can be alternated with ready-made means, there are no restrictions here. These decoctions will help make hair more manageable and less brittle, and prevent hair loss.

Flaxseeds in cooking

These seeds are used for a variety of purposes. They go well with vegetable salads, both with summer and winter ones. They can be safely added to cottage cheese or soft cheese, sprinkle with them oatmeal, bulgur, couscous, and other cereals. In addition, flaxseed can be added to pumpkin, carrot or mushroom cream soup, it is combined with vegetable stew. But in any case, it is added after boiling.

To replace the egg (with its unsafe cholesterol) in baking, use flax flour - 1 tbsp. 3 tbsp water.

By mixing wheat flour in equal proportions with oatmeal and linen, you can bake delicious pancakes for breakfast - especially since they can be served with fresh fruits and yogurt. Similarly, ground flax seeds are mixed with flour and cottage cheese for cheesecakes. Moreover, it is advisable not to fry pancakes and cheesecakes, but to bake the oven in the oven.

Harm and contraindications

Like any other product, flax seeds should be consumed sparingly, as otherwise unpleasant sensations may occur. If you eat them more than 1-2 tbsp. per day, there will be discomfort in the liver.

In addition, when eating flax seeds, some people may experience bloating and even flatulence, accompanied by pain and discomfort. If there is a tendency to such reactions, then you should start using flaxseed with a small amount, for example, from 0.5–1 tsp. per day, gradually increasing this dose.

Flax seeds are taken very carefully with chronic pancreatitis and cholecystitis. And although with gastritis they are even useful, with its exacerbation it is better to limit yourself to only mucus, since the seeds themselves can injure the mucous membrane.With prolonged use of this product, other troubles may appear - for example, diarrhea and pain in the intestines. The fact is that if there are problems with the digestive system, the intestines may be too sensitive to the fiber contained in the seeds. In addition, in such cases, peristalsis increases, which leads to pain. To smooth out the consequences, it is recommended to drink as much water as possible along with flax seeds.

Absolute contraindications for taking flaxseed are:

1. Intestinal obstruction.
2. Acute cholecystitis and pancreatitis.
3. The presence of stones in the gallbladder, since the seeds have a choleretic effect and can provoke the movement of stones and blockage of the passage.
4. Gynecological diseases - uterine fibroma, endometritis, polycystic.

In addition, you should not use flaxseed at the same time as diabetes medications, since blood glucose levels can drop dramatically. Also, this product should be discarded if there are allergy symptoms.

In addition, flax seeds that were not stored properly can cause harm. In this case, they form very dangerous substances - carcinogenic pyroxides.

Symptoms of flax seed allergy
The absence of gluten in the seeds does not mean that they do not cause allergic reactions. True, they are usually disguised as symptoms of poisoning such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Very rarely, there are such classic signs of allergies as urticaria and other types of rash.

How to choose and store flax seeds

When buying flaxseed seeds, it is worth giving preference to those that are sold not by weight, but already packaged in packages. At the same time, it is not recommended to buy ground seeds, because with this treatment the oil gets out and oxidizes very quickly. After a week, the seeds can already be thrown out. Therefore, it is recommended to grind them in a coffee grinder immediately before use.

It is impossible to store flax seeds in the light. Under the influence of ultraviolet light, oils and fatty acids are rapidly oxidized. As a result, the seeds acquire a characteristic rancid taste. Such a product should be discarded immediately, since the appearance of a taste means the presence of carcinogenic peroxides. So this product can only be stored in a closed container, which should be kept in a cool, dry place.

It is recommended to buy linseed oil in bottles of dark glass, be sure to check the expiration date. After opening, the oil container is stored exclusively in the refrigerator. The maximum term is two weeks. Therefore, it is better to buy small bottles so that you do not have to throw out the product.

But whole, not yet ground flax seeds can be stored much longer. On average, they can be stored for a year.

How to eat flax seeds

Many experts believe that the best option for eating flaxseed is in combination with dairy products. Indeed, such dishes become a good start to the day - they provide the necessary energy, while helping to strengthen the immune system, protect against bacteria and viruses. Also, the use of seeds with low-fat sour-milk products helps to establish digestion and lose extra pounds.

But in fact, flaxseed is a versatile product that combines literally with any dish. The main thing is that they do not undergo prolonged heat treatment, since in this case useful substances will be destroyed. Only the ability to envelop the mucous membranes will remain.

Thus, flaxseed can be consumed by adding to whole grain cereals, corn flakes and granola, which are eaten in combination with milk and yogurt. You can sprinkle seeds with cookies and pastries, low-fat cottage cheese and soft cheese, cook with them jelly, decoctions and infusions, which will be discussed below.

How much can you eat per day

Flax seeds should be consumed in moderation. The maximum daily dose is 30–40 g. But many doctors consider it too excessive, insisting on only 20 g per day. But even to this dose one should go gradually.

Can I eat at night and on an empty stomach

Adherents of traditional medicine recommend eating flaxseed on an empty stomach. However, doctors recommend a decoction or infusion to drink immediately before eating - that is, in 15 minutes. Also, many doctors advise adding flaxseed to breakfast, starting the day with it.

At night, this product is not recommended, especially if there is a risk of bloating and flatulence.

Can I eat dry

Theoretically, in small quantities, flax seeds can be eaten dry. But in this case, they must be chewed very carefully, and then washed down with water. But in general, in a dry form, flaxseed is not recommended, since this can lead to dehydration and exacerbation of constipation.

Dry flaxseed can only be very healthy people. These grains begin to swell only in the intestine, and if it is susceptible to inflammatory diseases, this can lead to unpleasant consequences.

Do I need to wash flax seeds before use

There is no consensus on this issue. Theoretically, flaxseed can be washed immediately before use, before you start to cook something from it. In other cases, this is not necessary.

How to brew flax seeds

It all depends on what exactly you need to brew flaxseed. For example, if we are talking about the treatment of gastritis, then in this case, the most important component is mucus. Take 1 tsp. sunflower seeds, pour a glass of boiling water and pour into a glass bottle, which is then tightly closed with a cork. Beat this fluid for 30 minutes, shaking the bottle with vigorous movements. As a result, mucus is formed, which is filtered through a fine sieve or gauze. The amount received should be enough for the whole day - it is divided into three doses. It is recommended to use mucus half an hour before meals. A fresh serving should be prepared every day.

If the goal is to cleanse the body, normalize digestion and reduce appetite, then you need to prepare a decoction or infusion of seeds. There are different ways to cook them, but in the classic version, the broth is prepared like this - 2 tbsp. sunflower seeds pour a glass of water, bring to a boil and leave over low heat for 10 minutes. Then they insist for half an hour, filtered through cheesecloth or strainer and drunk before eating.

The infusion is prepared even easier. In this case, the liquid will be less concentrated, 1 tsp. sunflower seeds pour a glass of boiling water and leave for 20 minutes, covering the container with a lid. Before use, the infusion is filtered. The maximum amount of decoction or infusion that can be drunk during the day is 250 ml, that is, a glass. As a rule, such funds are taken in courses lasting 10 days, and after a week and a half break, if necessary, repeat the treatment.

What can be prepared from flax seeds: recipes

On the basis of flaxseed, you can cook various dishes. Below will be considered the most useful options.

Flaxseed porridge

This is the best option if your stomach constantly hurts, you feel an unpleasant heaviness in your intestines or there has been poisoning. But remember the important rule - to cook a dish and eat it right away.

It will be required (for 1 portion):

• 30 g of flax seed;
• 1 tsp honey;
• 2-3 pcs. prunes.

In the evening, pour flax seeds with a mug of boiled water at room temperature. In the morning, add another 100 ml of water and pre-soaked in clean water, washed prunes. Pour the mixture into a convenient container to beat it with a blender, then add honey. The result is a liquid slurry.In order to conduct therapy, you need to take it at least 14 days twice a day, ideal for breakfast and before bedtime.

Kissel

Flax jelly is most often prepared for the treatment of pancreatitis. But, of course, it can be drunk and healthy people who do not have contraindications. Take 2 tbsp. flaxseed, grind in a coffee grinder, pour boiling water (at the rate of 1 cup for each spoon). Stir and cook over low heat for about 10 minutes, be sure to bring to a boil. Then the product is insisted for an hour, filtered, a little honey is added.

If there are no dietary restrictions, jelly can be prepared differently. Take 100 g of flaxseed, 1 liter of boiled and chilled water, any berries and fruits - 100 g, honey - to taste. Kissel begin to cook in the evening. To do this, pour water into a saucepan, pour seeds and fruits or berries. All this is mixed, covered with a lid and left overnight. In the morning, just beat the mixture with a blender. True, for a long time such a "live" jelly can not be stored in any case, it must be drunk immediately.

Smoothie

Flaxseed smoothies are recommended to be prepared on the basis of dairy products, for example, kefir. For one serving (its energy value is 210 kcal) take a glass of kefir, 1 tsp. ground flaxseed, the same amount of raisins, 2 prunes, cinnamon, honey and ginger to taste. All ingredients are mixed, then crushed with a hand blender and whisked a little. Smoothies served chilled. Instead of kefir, you can use unsweetened yogurt without additives.

Is it possible to give flax seeds to animals

Scientists have no consensus on this ingredient. On the one hand, it has been established that the omega-3 fatty acids included in this product have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin and coat of a pet. The lack of such acids leads to the fact that the coat loses its luster and density, becomes weak and brittle. Also, this lack leads to the appearance of eczema and dermatitis, the slow healing of any wounds. However, experts argue that the fatty acids contained in flaxseed are not well absorbed by pet organisms, so they get very few useful substances with this product. For predators (namely cats and dogs, in fact, they refer to them), the best source of omega-3 acids is fish oil.

However, many manufacturers produce special feeds containing granulated flaxseed. It is absorbed much better than ordinary grains.

Interesting facts about flax seed

1. Currently, flax seeds are used to prepare more than three hundred different foods. But most often they are used in the baking industry. Flaxseed pastries are especially popular in Germany. Here, this industry annually uses about 60 thousand tons of seeds, that is, about 1 kg for every German.
2. In Canada, this product is also recognized as very promising. Moreover, in this country it has the status of not a food supplement, but a food product. Also, at the state level, recommendations were adopted on the inclusion of up to 12% of flaxseed in bread and pastries produced industrially. Demand for this product is gradually growing in Russia.

Photo of flax seeds