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 Flax Seeds
Flax seeds are one of the richest sources of Omega 3 fatty acids -- an essential fat necessary for proper brain and immune system function. Omega 3 fatty acids are also associated with a reduced risk of dying from heart disease.
Flax seeds are also rich in protein, potassium, magnesium, boron, and lignans, which may help prevent cancer.
Preparation:
For maximum absorbtion, flax seeds should be ground up in a powerful blender or coffee grinder (even the cheap cofeee grinders work well), then added to smoothies or sprinkled on top of other foods such as soy yogurt, fruit, salads, or cereal.
You can also buy just the flax oil, but it can go rancid very quickly. This is because of the nature of the highly reactive Omega 3 fatty acids. The intact seeds on the other hand, protect the oils from being exposed to oxygen, making for a much better shelf life. The seeds also have additional nutritional properties not found in the oil.
For these reasons, flax seeds are probably a better choice than flax oil. Just remember to grind the seeds before eating so your body can absorb the nutrients.
Flax seeds as an egg-replacer:
Flax seeds can also be used as a replacement for eggs when baking. For each egg called for in a recipe, simply substitute with a tablespoon of ground flax seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water. This works great in cookies and muffins.
Flax seed Recipes:
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Golden flax seeds being ground with a coffee grinder. |
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Ground flax seeds mixed with water, before being added as an egg substitute for oatmeal cookies. |
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A blueberry smoothie blended with flax seeds. |
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Applesauce and oats sprinkled with brown sugar and ground flaxseeds. |
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Photos courtesy of:
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