In this 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's health, lose extra pounds, and improve the appearance of your skin and hair.
What are flax seeds? Translated from Latin, the word "canvas" means "the most useful". And this is not surprising. The plant is used in cosmetology, medicine and cooking. Its stems are used to produce extremely hygroscopic and environmentally friendly materials.
Flaxseed is known as a valuable food supplement and a universal remedy for many diseases. How are flaxseeds harvested? The raw materials are collected in September. Fruits are collected (flattened spherical boxes) containing about 10 seeds. The seeds removed from the boxes must be dried in a place protected from direct sunlight.
How to store flaxseed
Flaxseeds are susceptible to spoilage and oxidation. Therefore, store the product in the refrigerator in hermetically sealed containers. Refrigerated whole grains retain all their beneficial properties for 1 year.
If you buy flaxseed in a store, pay attention to the following:
- best before date;
- the integrity of the packaging (it must be sealed with a vacuum);
- no sign of moisture.
The composition and beneficial properties of flaxseed
Flaxseed contains the entire set of useful elements necessary to maintain the normal functioning of the human body:
- vitamins: 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 fibers;
- mono- and disaccharides.
- Medicinal properties of flaxseed
Traditional medicine recommends the use of flaxseed for the treatment of many diseases.
A unique product helps in therapy:
- pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, colitis, enteritis, enteritis, ulcerative lesions, food poisoning, constipation);
- diseases of the respiratory system and throat;
- weakened immune system;
- inflammation of the bladder and kidneys;
- sinusitis;
- hypertension;
- diabetes mellitus;
- liver dysfunction;
- tuberculosis;
- parasitic infections;
- 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 with.
Linseed oil
The main characteristic of linseed oil is the high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which enter the body only from external sources. It is worth buying a cold-pressed product. It retains useful materials during production. The high-quality oil does not contain sediment and has a pleasant sweet-nutty taste. Exposure to light and heat causes the oil to oxidize (becomes bitter). This product is extremely harmful to the body and can even cause cancer.
Flaxseed flour
Many recipes use ground flaxseed. You can make flour yourself with a coffee grinder or buy a ready-made product.
Linseed, flour and oil
Homemade linseed flour has a short shelf life - only 6-16 weeks if stored in a refrigerator in an airtight container. The product bought in the store does not contain oil components, so it can be kept for a long time.
Flaxseed - benefit or harm
The main advantage of flaxseed lies in the high content of 3 main components:
- Fiber - improves the functioning of the digestive system, removes harmful cholesterol.
- Polyunsaturated acids - ensure the recovery of body cells, prevent the formation of blood clots.
- Lignans have antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial effects. Restores women's hormone levels.
- The therapeutic effect of flaxseed is enhanced by vitamins (B, E) and trace elements (magnesium, iodine, manganese, calcium, chromium, potassium, copper, iron).
Benefits for the organization
Flaxseed has a comprehensive positive effect on the body:
- lowers cholesterol;
- strengthens the immune system;
- normalizes liver function;
- protection against vitamin deficiency;
- reduces sugar;
- reduces the risk of blood clots;
- normalizes high blood pressure;
- prevents the formation of tumors (including malignant ones);
- clean the intestines;
- activates peristalsis;
- improves fat metabolism;
- remove harmful substances and toxins from the body;
- improves the structure of the skin and hair at the cellular level;
- promotes rapid healing of the skin and mucous membranes;
- eliminates sexual dysfunction in men;
- regulates hormone levels, thereby improving the condition during menopause;
- has a laxative effect;
- relieves severe dry cough.
Contraindications
The use of linseed is prohibited:
- ileus;
- individual intolerance;
- stones in the bladder or gallbladder;
- exacerbation of cholecystitis or pancreatitis;
- liver cirrhosis, hepatitis;
- endometritis, uterine myoma, polycystic disease in women;
- inflammation of the prostate in men.
Abuse of the product can cause bloating and diarrhea. The permissible daily dose is 5-50 g.
How to take flaxseed for weight loss
Many women actively use flaxseed for weight loss. Nutritionists consider this method very effective and explain how the product works:
- It swells in the stomach, providing a feeling of fullness with a small volume.
- Fibers stimulate peristalsis, helping to clear the bowels quickly.
- Acids activate metabolic processes and speed up fat burning.
- Flax seeds for weight loss in the form of decoction or infusion, as well as jelly, cocktails, tea, compote, diet foods, etc. used as a supplement.
Flaxseed drinks prepare the body to digest food, activate metabolic processes and prevent the absorption of fats through the stomach wall. For weight loss, take ground flaxseed (2 tablespoons) twice a day with a glass of water. To enhance the therapeutic effect, drink plenty of fluids (at least 2 liters) during the day.
Flax decoction
Pour 2 tbsp. l. Flax seeds with 500 ml of boiled water and cook over low heat for about half an hour, after boiling, let the soup cool and filter. This drink should be consumed 25-30 minutes before a meal, 100 ml.
Flax infusion
The infusion is prepared at night, pour 2 tablespoons into a thermos. l. linseed, pour 1 liter of boiling water over it and let it cook until morning. Drink the filtered drink 20 minutes before a meal, in the amount of 100-150 ml.
Drinks with flaxseed for weight loss
In addition to the usual decoction or infusion, you can also add flaxseed to your favorite drinks, the effect will be no less effective. Canned - cook berry compote, add flax seeds, 1 tbsp. l. seeds for 500 ml of jelly (compote), let it cool. The jelly should be liquid at first, because it will thicken after adding the flax.
Tea - add 1 tsp to brewed tea. flaxseed and green tea are more suitable for weight loss. You can drink this drink no more than 2 times a day.
Cocktail - mix 250 ml carrot juice, 1 tsp. linseed oil and 1 tbsp. l. flaxseed, add a few drops of lemon juice. This cocktail can be consumed three times a day. For best results, replace a lunch and an evening meal with it.
Lenitals must always be fresh, the shelf life of ready-made concoctions and decoctions 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 unbalanced, exhausting diets and restore the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. With the proper use of flaxseed, you can lose about 2 kilograms per week, practically without changing your diet. Flax contains a lot of fiber and is low in carbohydrates, so the seeds swell up in your stomach, so you feel full with less food. In addition, flax helps speed up metabolic processes, the body burns more calories and burns accumulated fat reserves.
Flaxseed for colon cleansing
Flaxseed helps to cleanse the intestines of toxins, reduce the amount of sludge in the body and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
Classic cleansing ingredients:
- linseed - 50 g.
- Water - 1 l.
Preparation: Pour hot water over the flax seeds in a glass container. Be sure to close with a lid. Wrap the container well and leave it for 6 hours. Filter before use.
Usage: Drink the first dose (150 ml) 30 minutes before breakfast, on an empty stomach. You can add a little honey to the drink. The entire infusion (1 l) should be drunk during the day. Drink the drink only warm. Do this cleanse daily for 2 weeks. You can only repeat the course after 6 months.
Result: the infusion cleanses the body of toxins, lowers cholesterol, relieves constipation, and activates bowel movements. Flax mucus ensures the healing of mucosal ulcers. Regular consumption of the drink cleans the blood, the liver, and improves the condition of the skin.
Cleansing with kefir
Flax seeds with kefir
Ingredients:
- Linseed - 15-45 g.
- Low-fat kefir - 100 ml.
Preparation: Mix kefir with flaxseed. You can use whole grain or crushed flour. Usage: Use in the morning, on an empty stomach, instead of breakfast with flax kefir. 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 - increase the amount of seed to 45 g. You can repeat the course only after six months.
Result: linseed kefir removes toxins, improves the appearance of the skin, restores the intestinal microflora and activates peristalsis. Weight loss occurs due to the normalization of metabolism.
It does not cause any particular harm, but it is not advisable to take:
- pregnant women;
- people with gallbladder problems;
- who suffer from pancreatitis, colitis, flatulence.
Be sure to consult your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- pancreatitis;
- inflammation of the gallbladder
- cirrhosis of the liver;
- hepatitis;
- gallstones (causes colic);
- low pressure;
- enteritis.
Consult your doctor if you are taking the following medicines:
- from allergies,
- antidepressants,
- birth control pills.
Flax increases blood clotting, can lower blood pressure or slow down the absorption of medicines. The use of flaxseed oil and seeds may be incompatible with other medications.
Including flaxseed in your diet offers:
- normalization of hormonal levels;
- fight against chronic diseases of the digestive system;
- reducing constipation;
- minimizing the development of serious pathologies of the nervous system in the fetus;
- protects the baby from viral infections.
It is strictly forbidden to take flaxseed without consulting a 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 correct dosage regimen of flaxseed for pregnant women.
When breastfeeding
Active use of flaxseed during lactation is not desirable. Some substances that enter the child's body with milk can make it difficult for it to function. But sometimes doctors recommend flaxseed in small quantities to nursing mothers (in case of certain pathologies). Pregnant and lactating women can best consume the product by adding it to baked goods or salads.
Against constipation
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed - 2 tsp. . .
- Boiled warm water - 1 tbsp.
Method of preparation: Flaxseed can be ground if the whole grain is difficult to swallow. How to use: Take flaxseed with water in the evening. Repeat the procedure for 2-3 days. Result: The product activates peristalsis and helps to clean the intestines naturally. In case of chronic constipation, a 7-day course is recommended.
Ground flaxseed
For pancreatitis
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 2 tablespoons. l.
- Water - 0. 4 ml.
Honey - to taste, but no more than 2 tablespoons. l.
Preparation: Grind the raw materials and pour boiling water over them. Cook the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, then let it stand for 1 hour. Strain the linseed jelly through a filter. Add honey to taste. Usage: Drink 200 ml twice a day on an empty stomach, 15-20 minutes before meals. The treatment lasts from 3 weeks to several months.
Result: Linseed jelly has an anti-inflammatory and astringent effect on the pancreas. Fibers activate the removal of toxins and speed up metabolism.
For gastritis
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 1 tablespoon. l.
- Water - 0. 5 l.
Preparation: Pour the ingredients with boiling water. Leave the product for 1 hour, shaking occasionally. Strain the drink through a filter. Usage: 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.
In case of diabetes
Ingredients:
- Seeds - 2 tbsp. l.
- Boiling water - 100 ml.
Cooking method: Pour boiling water over the flaxseed. Leave the mixture for about 10 minutes. Then add 150 ml of boiled, cooled water. Usage: Drink the infusion once a day - in the morning on an empty stomach or 20 minutes before a meal. The duration of the treatment is 10 days - 1 month. Result: The drink reduces sugar well. The seeds contain monosaccharides, so diabetics should consume flaxseed only after consulting a doctor.
To lower cholesterol
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 1 tablespoon. l.
- Aloe juice - 0. 5 tbsp. l.
- Water - 1 tbsp.
Preparation method: Grind the seeds. Pour boiling water over them and leave for about 2 hours. Add aloe juice. No need to filter the drink. Usage: Take 0. 5 cups in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening, 4 hours after a meal. Continue therapy for 1-3 months. Result: The drink normalizes the cholesterol level, improves the condition of blood vessels and prevents the development of atherosclerosis.
Making flaxseed for diet foods that also contain flaxseed for weight loss:
Hercules with flaxseed
Soak 2 tbsp. l. flaxseed in warm water. Cook porridge from 100-150 g of oatmeal, add swollen flaxseed and mix. If desired, you can add a small amount of finely chopped fruit or dried fruit, apples and prunes are perfect.
Porridge with sprouted wheat and flaxseed
3 tablespoons. l. sprouted wheat and 1 tbsp. l. linseed, soak in boiled water for two hours, then drain the remaining liquid. Add 50 g of coarsely grated apples and some dates soaked in water to the porridge.
Dried fruits and flaxseed for weight loss
Soak 2 tbsp. l. linseed in cooled water to a temperature of 40-45 degrees and wait until it swells. Pass dried fruits scalded with boiling water through a meat grinder: prunes, dates and dried apricots - 3 each. everybody. Add flaxseed and 1 tbsp. l. rice flour, mix the ingredients thoroughly (if necessary, you can add a little cocoa powder, but the food will be higher in calories). Roll into small balls, roll in coconut and put in the fridge for a few hours. The most delicious diet dessert is ready!
Flaxseed in cosmetology
The useful product can also be used externally. It makes it possible to eliminate many cosmetic problems and provides a healthy appearance to the skin and hair.
Mask for the face
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 1 tablespoon. l.
- Boiling water - 0. 5 tbsp.
- Cream (for sensitive and dry skin) - 1 tablespoon. l.
- Oatmeal (for oily and problematic skin) - 1 tablespoon. l.
Cooking method: Pour boiling water over the flaxseed. Steam the product in a water bath for 15 minutes. Strain the broth. Add the required ingredient (oatmeal or cream).
How to use: Apply the product to cleansed facial skin. Wash off after 15 minutes. Repeat the mask 2-3 times a week. Result: The product cleans, nourishes the skin, narrows the pores and eliminates greasiness. The mask smooths out wrinkles and normalizes metabolism in the epidermis.
Hair mask
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 2 tablespoons. l.
- Boiling water - 125 ml.
Preparation: Pour boiling water over the ingredients and thoroughly mix the mixture in a blender. How to use: Apply a warm mask to the roots and hair. Put a plastic cap on your head and wrap it with a towel. Wash off the mask after 2 hours. Repeat the procedure 2 times a week. Result: The mask provides silky and smooth hair. It strengthens the hair follicle and improves hair growth.
Cloth mask after hair
Flax seeds - recipes.
In alternative medicine, there are universal remedies that can be used to treat and prevent various pathologies.
With a kiss
Recipe description: Kissel has neither taste nor smell. For a pleasant taste, add honey, cinnamon, vanilla, berries, chicory.
You will need:
- flaxseed - 1 tbsp. l. ;
- water - 0. 5 l;
- cinnamon, honey, berries, chicory, vanilla - to taste.
Preparation: Pour boiling water over the seeds. Leave the mixture for 8 hours. The jelly does not need to be strained. Add cinnamon, vanilla, honey, berries. Calorie content: 100 g of jelly (in its pure form, without additives) - 5. 2 kcal, and 100 g of jelly with the addition of honey (1 teaspoon) - 8. 4 kcal.
Decoction
Description of the recipe: The decoction ensures a comprehensive cleansing of the body, normalizes the functioning of the digestive system, cleans the blood, the 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.
Method of preparation: Pour water over the flaxseed. Boil 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 pickle juice. Calorie content: 100 g of decoction with pomegranate juice - 5. 4 kcal.
What to remember
You can only consume flaxseed after consulting your doctor. The product has great benefits for the body, but it can also cause harm. The daily dose of the seeds is 5-50 g. Abuse leads to diarrhea and bloating. Store flax products (seeds, flour, oil) in a dark, cool place, always in a hermetically sealed container.