In the article we discuss flax seeds, their benefits and harms, and tell you how to take them correctly for medicinal purposes and for weight loss. By following our tips, you can improve the health of your body, lose extra pounds and improve the appearance of your skin and hair.
What are flax seeds? Translated from Latin, the word "linen" means "the most useful". And that's not surprising. The plant is used in cosmetology, medicine and cooking. Its stems are used to produce highly hygroscopic and environmentally friendly fabrics.
Flaxseeds are recognized as a valuable nutritional supplement and a universal remedy for many different diseases. How are flax seeds harvested? Raw materials are collected in September. The fruits are harvested (flattened spherical boxes) containing about 10 seeds. Seeds gutted from boxes should be dried in places protected from direct sunlight.
How to store flax seeds
Flaxseeds are susceptible to deterioration and oxidation. Therefore, store the product in the refrigerator in tightly closed containers. Refrigerated whole grains retain all their beneficial properties for 1 year.
If you buy flax seeds in a store, pay attention to:
- expiration date ;
- integrity of the packaging (it must be vacuum sealed);
- no sign of humidity.
Composition and beneficial properties of flax seeds
Flax seeds include 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 the use of flaxseed to treat a wide variety of diseases.
A unique product helps in therapy:
- pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, colitis, intestinal atony, enteritis, ulcerative lesions, food poisoning, constipation);
- diseases of the respiratory system and throat;
- weakened immune system;
- inflammation of the bladder and kidneys;
- sinusitis;
- hypertension;
- diabetic sugar;
- liver dysfunction;
- tuberculosis;
- parasitic infestations;
- arthritis, gout, rheumatism, heel spur;
- neuralgic pain;
- furunculosis, barley, burns;
- oncological diseases;
- cardiovascular diseases (atherosclerosis, stroke, thrombophlebitis, ischemia, myocardial infarction).
And this is not a complete list of pathologies for which flax seeds help.
Flaxseed oil
The main feature of flaxseed oil is its high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which enter the body only from external sources. It is best to purchase a cold-pressed product. It is during this production that it retains useful substances. The high quality oil does not contain sediment and has a pleasant sweet nutty flavor. Exposure to light and heat causes the oil to oxidize (it begins to taste bitter). This product is extremely harmful to the body and can even cause cancer.
Flaxseed meal
Many recipes use ground flaxseed. You can prepare flour yourself using a coffee grinder or buy a ready-made product.
Flaxseed, flour and oil
Homemade flax meal has a short shelf life – only 6 to 16 weeks, if stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The store-bought product does not contain petroleum components, so it can be stored for a long time.
Flax seeds - benefit or harm
The main advantage of flax seeds is the high content of 3 main components:
- Fiber - improves the functioning of the digestive tract, removes harmful cholesterol.
- Polyunsaturated acids - provide restoration of body cells, prevent the appearance of blood clots.
- Lignans have antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial effects. Restores hormonal 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
Flax seeds provide comprehensive positive effects on the body:
- reduce 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);
- clean the intestines;
- activate peristalsis;
- improve fat metabolism;
- remove harmful substances and toxins from the body;
- provide improvement in the structure of the skin and hair at the cellular level;
- promote rapid healing of the skin and mucous membranes;
- eliminate sexual dysfunctions in men;
- regulate hormonal levels, thereby improving the condition during menopause;
- have a laxative effect;
- soften severe dry cough.
Contraindications
The use of flax seeds is prohibited for:
- intestinal obstruction;
- individual intolerance;
- stones in the urinary tract or gallbladder;
- exacerbation of cholecystitis or pancreatitis;
- liver cirrhosis, hepatitis;
- endometritis, uterine fibroid, polycystic disease in women;
- inflammation of the prostate in men.
Abuse of the product can cause flatulence and diarrhea. The admissible daily dose is 5 to 50 g.
How to take flax seeds for weight loss
Many women actively use flax seeds 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.
- Fiber stimulates peristalsis, promoting 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 in jellies, cocktails, tea, compote, diet dishes, etc.
Flaxseed drinks will prepare the body for digestion of food, activate the metabolic process and prevent the absorption of fats through the walls of the stomach. For weight loss, take ground flaxseed (2 tablespoons) twice a day with a glass of water. In order to enhance the therapeutic effect, drink plenty of fluids (at least 2 liters) throughout the day.
Flax decoction
Pour 2 tbsp. L. Flaxseed 500 ml of boiled water and cook over low heat for about half an hour, after boiling, then let the broth cool and filter it. This drink should be consumed 25-30 minutes before meals, 100 ml.
Flax infusion
The infusion is made in the evening, pour 2 tablespoons into a thermos. L. flax seeds, pour 1 liter of boiling water over them and leave to infuse until morning. Drink the filtered drink 20 minutes before meals, at a rate of 100 to 150 ml.
Flaxseed drinks 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 to it, equal to 1 tbsp. L. seeds for 500 ml of jelly (compote), leave to cool. The jelly should initially be liquid, because after adding flax it will thicken.
Tea – add 1 teaspoon to brewed tea. flax seeds, 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 tbsp. flaxseed oil and 1 tbsp. L. flax seeds, add a few drops of lemon juice. This cocktail can be consumed 3 times a day. For best results, replace it with a lunch dish and an evening 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 break for ten days.
With the help of flax, you can eliminate the consequences of an unbalanced and exhausting diet and restore the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. With proper use of flaxseed, you can lose about 2 kilos per week, practically without changing your diet. Flax contains a lot of fiber and is low in carbohydrates, so once in your stomach, the seeds begin to swell, making you feel full with less food consumed. In addition, flax helps accelerate metabolic processes, the body will burn more calories and burn accumulated fat reserves.
Flaxseed to cleanse the colon
Flaxseed helps cleanse the intestines of toxins, reduce sludge in the body and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
Typical cleaning ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 50g.
- Water – 1 liter.
How to prepare: Pour boiling water over flax seeds in a glass container. Be sure to close it with a lid. Wrap the container well and leave to infuse for 6 hours. Filter before use.
Directions: Drink the first portion (150 ml) 30 minutes before breakfast, on an empty stomach. You can add a little honey to the drink. The entire infusion (1 l) must be drunk during the day. Drink the drink only lukewarm. Perform this cleanse daily for 2 weeks. You can only repeat the course after 6 months.
Result: the infusion cleanses the body of toxins, reduces cholesterol, relieves constipation and activates intestinal motility. Flax mucus ensures the healing of ulcers of the mucous membranes. Regular consumption of the drink cleanses the blood, liver and improves skin condition.
Kefir cleansing
Flaxseeds in kefir
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds – 15-45 g.
- Low fat kefir – 100 ml.
How to prepare: Mix kefir with flax seeds. You can use whole grains or cracked flour. Instructions for use: Use flax with kefir in the morning, on an empty stomach, instead of breakfast. The cleaning course lasts 3 weeks. Perform it according to the following scheme - during the first week - use 15 g of seeds with kefir, in the second - 30 g; in the third, increase the quantity of seeds to 45 g. You can only repeat the course after six months.
Result: flax seeds in kefir remove toxins, improve the appearance of the skin, restore intestinal microflora and activate peristalsis. Due to the normalization of metabolism, weight loss occurs.
It does not cause any particular damage, but it is not recommended to take it for:
- pregnant women;
- people with gallbladder problems;
- those who suffer from exacerbation of pancreatitis, colitis, flatulence.
Be sure to consult your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- pancreatitis;
- cholecystitis
- liver cirrhosis;
- hepatitis;
- gallstones (causes colic);
- low pressure;
- intestinal inflammation.
Check with your doctor if you are taking the following medications:
- allergies,
- antidepressants,
- contraceptive pills.
Flax improves blood clotting, can lower blood pressure or slow the absorption of medications. The use of flaxseed and oil may be incompatible with other medications.
Including flax seeds in your diet provides:
- normalization of hormonal levels;
- fight against chronic diseases of the digestive system;
- reduction of constipation;
- minimize the development of serious pathologies of the nervous system in the fetus;
- protect the baby from viral infections.
It is strictly forbidden to take flaxseed without consulting your gynecologist. Despite its significant benefits, the product can cause uterine tone, which can lead to miscarriage or premature birth. Only a doctor can prescribe and select the appropriate diet for taking flaxseed for pregnant women.
When breastfeeding
Active use of flaxseed during lactation is undesirable. Certain substances that enter a child's body with milk can make it more difficult for it to function. But sometimes doctors recommend flax seeds in small quantities to breastfeeding mothers (for certain pathologies). Pregnant and lactating women can better consume the product by adding it to pastries or salads.
For constipation
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 2 teaspoons…
- Warm boiled water – 1 tbsp.
How to prepare: Flaxseeds can be ground if the whole grain is difficult to swallow. Directions: In the evening, take flax seeds with water. Repeat the procedure for 2-3 days. Result: The product activates peristalsis and helps clean the intestines naturally. For chronic constipation, a 7-day treatment is recommended.
Ground flax seeds
For pancreatitis
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 2 tbsp. L.
- Water – 0. 4 ml.
Honey - to taste, but not more than 2 tbsp. L.
How to prepare: Grind the raw materials and pour boiling water over them. Cook the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, then let sit for 1 hour. Pass the flaxseed jelly through a strainer. Add honey to your taste. How to use: Take 200 ml of drink twice a day on an empty stomach, 15 to 20 minutes before meals. The duration of treatment is from 3 weeks to several months.
Result: Flaxseed jelly provides an anti-inflammatory and astringent effect on the pancreas. Fiber activates the elimination of toxins and accelerates metabolism.
For gastritis
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 1 tbsp. L.
- Water – 0. 5 l.
How to prepare: Pour boiling water over the raw materials. Leave to act for 1 hour, shaking from time to time. Filter the drink through a strainer. Directions: Drink the infusion twice a day on an empty stomach, 200-250 ml. Continue treatment for 1 month. Result: The infusion provides an anti-inflammatory effect. The treatment eliminates pain, nausea and heartburn.
For diabetes
Ingredients:
- Seeds – 2 tbsp. L.
- Boiling water – 100 ml.
How to cook: Pour boiling water over flax seeds. Leave the mixture for about 10 minutes. Then add 150 ml of chilled boiled water. How to use: 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. The seeds contain monosaccharides, so people with diabetes should only consume flaxseed after consulting a doctor.
To lower cholesterol
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 1 tbsp. L.
- Aloe juice – 0. 5 tbsp. L.
- Water – 1 tbsp.
How to prepare: Grind the seeds. Pour boiling water over it and leave for about 2 hours. Add aloe juice. There is no need to filter the drink. Instructions for use: Take 0. 5 cups in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening, 4 hours after meals. Continue treatment for 1 to 3 months. Result: The drink normalizes cholesterol, 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 flax seeds
Soak 2 tbsp. L. flax seeds in lukewarm water. Cook porridge from 100-150 g of oatmeal, add swollen flax seeds to it and stir. If you wish, you can add a small amount of finely chopped fruit or dried fruit; apples and prunes are perfect.
Porridge with sprouted wheat and flax seeds
3 tbsp. L. sprouted wheat and 1 tbsp. L. flax seeds, soak in boiled water for two hours, then drain the remaining liquid. Add to the porridge 50 g of coarsely grated apples and a few dates previously soaked in water.
Dried fruits and flax seeds for weight loss
Soak 2 tbsp. L. flax seeds in water cooled 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 pcs each. everyone. Add the flax seeds and 1 tablespoon to the minced meat obtained. L. rice flour, mix the ingredients well (if desired, you can add a little cocoa powder, but the dish will turn out to be more high-calorie). Form small balls, roll them in coconut and place them in the refrigerator for a few hours. The most delicious diet dessert is ready!
Flax seeds in cosmetology
The useful product can be used externally. It allows you to eliminate a number of cosmetic problems and gives healthy-looking skin and hair.
Face mask
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.
How to cook: Pour boiling water over flax seeds. Let the product simmer in a water bath for 15 minutes. Filter the broth. Add the required component (oatmeal or cream).
How to use: Apply the product to cleansed facial skin. After 15 minutes, rinse it off. Repeat the mask 2 to 3 times a week. Result: The product cleanses the skin, nourishes it, tightens pores and eliminates oil. The mask smoothes wrinkles and normalizes the metabolism of the epidermis.
Hair mask
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 2 tbsp. L.
- Boiling water – 125 ml.
How to prepare: Pour boiling water over the raw materials and beat the mixture thoroughly in a blender. Directions: Apply a warm mask to the roots and along the length of the hair. Put a plastic cap on your head and wrap it with a towel. After 2 hours, rinse off the mask. Repeat the procedure 2 times a week. Result: The mask will ensure silky and smooth hair. It strengthens the hair follicle and improves hair growth.
Hair after linen mask
Flax seeds - recipes.
In alternative medicine, there are universal remedies that can be used for the treatment and prevention of 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.
How to prepare: Pour boiling water over the seeds. Leave the mixture for 8 hours. There is no need to strain the jelly. Add cinnamon, vanilla, honey and berries to it. Calorie content: per 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
Recipe description: The decoction provides complete cleansing of the body, normalizes the functioning of the digestive system, cleanses the blood, liver, 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 tbsp.
How to prepare: Cover the flax seeds with water. Boil the mixture in a water bath for 30 minutes. Then wrap the container containing the broth in a warm cloth and let the solution sit for another 3 to 4 hours. Filter the broth. Add sour juice to it. Calorie content: per 100 g of pomegranate juice decoction – 5. 4 kcal.
What you must remember
You can only consume flaxseed after consulting a doctor. The product brings great benefits to the body, but can also be harmful. The daily dose of seeds is 5 to 50 g. Abuse causes diarrhea and flatulence. Store flax products (seeds, flour, oil) in a dark, cool place and always in a tightly closed container.