Medical Benefits of Flax Seeds
July 15th, 2009 by adminFlax seed contains high amounts of omega 3 alpha linolenic acid (ALA). This omega 3 flax seed contains Omega3-s and Omega-6s in an optimal 3:1 balance and it is also a good source of dietary fiber, protein and lignans. Due to its rich contents, the use of flax seed has been proven to provide medical benefits and prevent the occurrence of diseases such as several types of cancer. Today, wholesale flaxseed is now made available for consumer use and consumption.
Flax seed is one of the highest sources of lignans. Lignans are one of the major classes of phytoestrogens, an estrogen-like chemical that also acts as antioxidant. Lignans may also benefit the heart and possess anti-cancer properties.
For women, large scale population studies showed that flax seed and its lignans prevent the occurrence of breast cancer. Having a flax seed regularly can reduce chances for breast cancer and improve the condition of a woman with breast cancer.
Men, on the other hand, can also enjoy the benefits of regular flax seed intake since flax seed can prevent prostate cancer and the growth of prostate tumors. In a study conducted, men who consumed flax seeds before the prostate surgery was found to have less complications compared to those who did not add flax seeds in their diet. It was believed to be due to the action of omega 3 flax seed, which stopped cancer cells from sticking to other cells, and its lignans which slowed blood supply to the tumor. But like other studies, these medical observations still need to be confirmed through further researches.
