In the 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 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 "flax" means "the most useful". And that's not surprising. The plant is used in cosmetology, medicine and cooking. Its stems are used to produce fabrics that are highly hygroscopic and environmentally friendly.
Flax seeds are recognized as a valuable dietary supplement and a universal remedy for many different diseases. How are flax seeds harvested? Raw materials are collected in September. Fruits are collected (flattened spherical boxes) with about 10 seeds. The seeds removed from the boxes must be dried in places protected from direct sunlight.
How to store flax seeds
Flaxseed is susceptible to spoilage and oxidation. Therefore, store the product in the refrigerator using airtight containers. Whole grains in the refrigerator retain all their useful properties for 1 year.
If you buy flax seeds in a store, pay attention to:
- best by date;
- packaging integrity (must be vacuum sealed);
- no signs of moisture.
Composition and beneficial properties of flaxseed
Flaxseed includes a complete 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 fibers;
- mono- and disaccharides.
- Medicinal properties of flax seeds
Traditional medicine recommends the use of flax seeds for the treatment of a wide range of diseases.
The 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;
- diabetes mellitus;
- liver dysfunction;
- tuberculosis;
- parasitic infestations;
- arthritis, gout, rheumatism, heels;
- 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.
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 better to buy a cold-pressed product. During this production, it retains useful substances. 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 (begin to taste bitter). This product is extremely harmful to the body and can even cause cancer.
Flaxseed flour
Many recipes use ground flaxseed. You can make the flour yourself using a coffee grinder or buy a ready-made product.
Flax seeds, flour and oil
Flax flour produced in-house has a short shelf life - only 6-16 weeks, if stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The store-bought product does not contain oily components, so it can be stored for a long time.
Flax seeds - benefit or harm
The main advantage of flaxseed lies in the high content of 3 main components:
- Fiber - improves the work of the digestive tract, removes harmful cholesterol.
- Polyunsaturated acids - ensure the renewal of body cells, prevent the formation of blood clots.
- Lignans have antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial effects. It restores the hormonal level in women.
- 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 body
Flax seeds provide comprehensive positive effects on the body:
- reduce cholesterol;
- strengthen the immune system;
- normalize liver function;
- protects against vitamin deficiency;
- reduce sugar;
- reduce the risk of blood clots;
- normalization of high blood pressure;
- prevent the formation of tumors (including malignant ones);
- cleanse the bowels;
- activate peristalsis;
- improve fat metabolism;
- remove harmful substances and toxins from the body;
- provide improvement of skin and hair structure at the cellular level;
- promote rapid healing of the skin and mucous membranes;
- eliminate sexual dysfunctions in men;
- they regulate the level of hormones, which improves the condition during menopause;
- have a laxative effect;
- relieve severe dry cough.
Contraindications
The use of flaxseed is prohibited for:
- intestinal obstruction;
- individual intolerance;
- stones in the urinary or gall bladder;
- 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 bloating and diarrhea. The permitted daily dose is from 5 to 50 g.
How to take flax seeds 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 satiety with a small volume.
- Fiber stimulates peristalsis, promoting rapid bowel cleansing.
- Acids activate metabolic processes and accelerate fat burning.
- Flax seeds for weight loss are used in the form of decoctions or infusions, as well as as an additional ingredient in jelly, cocktails, tea, compote, diet dishes, etc.
Flax seed drinks will prepare the body for food digestion, activate the metabolic process and prevent fat absorption through the stomach walls. To lose weight, 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.
Decoction of flax
Pour 2 tbsp. l. Pour 500 ml of boiled water over the flax seeds and cook on low heat for about half an hour, after boiling, then leave the soup to cool and strain. This drink should be drunk 25-30 minutes before meals, 100 ml each.
Flax infusion
The infusion is made at night, pour 2 tablespoons into a thermos. l. of flax seeds, pour 1 liter of boiling water over them and leave to stand until morning. Drink the strained drink 20 minutes before meals, in the amount of 100-150 ml.
Drinks with flax seeds for weight loss
Along with 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 linseed to it, equal to 1 spoon. l. seeds to 500 ml of jelly (compote), cool. The jelly should be runny at first, because it will thicken after adding the flax.
Tea - add 1 teaspoon to brewed tea. flax seeds, green tea is more suitable for weight loss. You can drink this drink a maximum of 2 times a day.
Cocktail - mix 250 ml of carrot juice, 1 tsp. linseed 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, swap one meal for lunch and one meal for dinner.
Flax drinks should always be fresh, the shelf life of finished 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 ten-day break.
With the help of flax, you can eliminate the consequences of unbalanced, exhausting diets and restore the work of the gastrointestinal tract. With the proper use of flax seeds, you can lose about 2 kilograms per week, practically without changing your diet. Flax is high in fiber and low in carbohydrates, so once in your stomach, the seeds begin to swell, making you feel full with less food. In addition, flax helps speed up metabolic processes, the body will burn more calories and burn accumulated fat reserves.
Flax seeds for colon cleansing
Flax seeds help to cleanse the intestines of toxins, reduce sludge in the body and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
Classic cleaning ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 50 g.
- Water – 1 l.
How to prepare: Pour boiling water over the flax seeds in a glass container. Be sure to close it with a lid. Wrap the container well and let it stand for 6 hours. Strain before use.
Method of use: 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 warm. Do this cleanse daily for 2 weeks. You can repeat the course only after 6 months.
The result: the infusion cleanses the body of toxins, reduces cholesterol, relieves constipation and activates intestinal motility. Flax mucilage ensures the healing of ulcers on the mucous membrane. Regular consumption of the drink cleans the blood, liver and improves the condition of the skin.
Cleansing with kefir
Flax seeds with kefir
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 15-45 g.
- Kefir with low fat content - 100 ml.
Method of preparation: Mix kefir with flax seeds. You can use whole grains or ground flour. Method of use: Use flax with kefir in the morning, on an empty stomach, instead of breakfast. The cleaning course lasts 3 weeks. Carry it out 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 amount of seed to 45 g. You can repeat the course only after six months.
Result: flax seeds with kefir remove toxins, improve skin appearance, restore intestinal microflora and activate peristalsis. Thanks to the normalization of metabolism, weight loss occurs.
It does not cause any particular harm, but it is not recommended to take it for:
- pregnant women;
- people with gallbladder problems;
- those suffering from exacerbation of pancreatitis, colitis, flatulence.
Be sure to consult your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- pancreatitis;
- cholecystitis
- liver cirrhosis;
- hepatitis;
- gallstones (causing colic);
- low pressure;
- inflammation of the intestine.
Check with your doctor if you are taking the following medicines:
- from allergies,
- antidepressants,
- birth control pills.
Flax promotes blood clotting, can lower blood pressure or slow down the absorption of drugs. The use of linseed oil and seeds may be incompatible with other medications.
Including flaxseed in your diet ensures:
- normalization of hormone levels;
- fight against chronic diseases of the digestive system;
- reduction of constipation;
- minimizing the development of severe pathologies of the nervous system in the fetus;
- protects the baby from viral infections.
It is strictly forbidden to take flaxseed without consulting your 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 regimen of taking flaxseed for pregnant women.
When you are breastfeeding
Active use of flaxseed during lactation is undesirable. Some substances that enter the child's body with milk can make it difficult for him to function. But sometimes doctors recommend flax seeds in small quantities to nursing mothers (for certain pathologies). Pregnant and lactating women can best consume the product by adding it to baked goods or salads.
For prison
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 2 teaspoons. . .
- Warm boiled water - 1 spoon.
How to prepare: Flax seeds can be ground if the whole grain is difficult to swallow. How to use: In the evening, take flax seeds with water. Repeat the procedure for 2-3 days. Result: The product activates peristalsis and helps the natural cleaning of the intestines. For chronic constipation, a 7-day course of treatment is recommended.
Ground linseed
For pancreatitis
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds – 2 tablespoons. l.
- Water – 0. 4 ml.
Honey - to taste, but not more than 2 spoons. l.
How to prepare: Grind the raw materials and pour boiling water over them. Cook the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, then leave for 1 hour. Strain the linseed jelly through a strainer. Add honey to your taste. Method of use: Take 200 ml of the drink twice a day on an empty stomach, 15-20 minutes before meals. The duration of treatment is from 3 weeks to several months.
Result: Flaxseed jelly has an anti-inflammatory and astringent effect on the pancreas. Fiber activates the removal of toxins and accelerates metabolism.
For gastritis
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 1 spoon. l.
- Water – 0. 5 l.
How to prepare: Pour boiling water over the ingredients. Leave the product for 1 hour with occasional shaking. Strain the drink through a strainer. How to use: Drink the infusion twice a day on an empty stomach, 200-250 ml each. 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 tablespoons. 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 boiled cooled 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 consume flax seeds only after consulting a doctor.
To reduce cholesterol
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 1 tablespoon. l.
- Aloe juice - 0. 5 tablespoons. l.
- Water – 1 spoon.
Method of preparation: Grind the seeds. Pour boiling water over them and leave for about 2 hours. Add aloe juice. There is no need to strain the drink. How to use: Take 0. 5 cups in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening, 4 hours after eating. Continue therapy for 1-3 months. Result: The drink normalizes cholesterol, improves the condition of blood vessels, prevents the development of atherosclerosis.
Preparation of flax seeds for use in dietary dishes that include flax seeds for weight loss:
Hercules with flax seeds
Soak 2 tbsp. l. of flax seeds in warm water. Cook porridge from 100-150 g of oatmeal, add swollen flax seeds to it and mix. If desired, you can also 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 50 g of coarsely grated apples and a few dates, previously soaked in water, to the porridge.
Dried fruits and flax seeds for weight loss
Soak 2 tbsp. l. linseed in cooled water at a temperature of 40-45 degrees and wait for it to swell. Pass the dried fruit burnt with boiling water through a meat grinder: prunes, dates and dried apricots - 3 pcs each. to everyone. Add flax seeds and 1 tbsp to the minced meat. l. of rice flour, mix the ingredients well (if desired, you can add a little cocoa powder, but it will turn out that the dish is more caloric). Roll them into small balls, roll them in coconut and put them in the fridge for a couple of 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 provides a healthy appearance of skin and hair.
Face mask
Ingredients:
- Flaxseed – 1 tablespoon. l.
- Boiling water - 0. 5 tbsp.
- Cream (for sensitive and dry skin) – 1 spoon. l.
- Oatmeal (for oily and problematic skin) – 1 tablespoon. l.
How to cook: pour boiling water over flax seeds. Boil the product in a water bath for 15 minutes. Strain the soup. Add the required component (oatmeal or cream).
How to use: Apply the product to cleansed facial skin. After 15 minutes, rinse. Repeat the mask 2-3 times a week. Result: The product cleans the skin, nourishes it, narrows the pores and removes fat. The mask smoothes wrinkles and normalizes metabolism in the epidermis.
Hair mask
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds – 2 tablespoons. l.
- Boiling water – 125 ml.
How to prepare: Pour boiling water over the ingredients and beat the mixture well in a blender. Method of use: Apply a warm mask to the roots and along the hair. Put a plastic cap on your head and wrap it with a towel. After 2 hours, wash 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 mask after canvas
Flax seeds - recipes.
In alternative medicine, there are universal medicines that can be used for the treatment and prevention of various pathologies.
Sour
Recipe description: Sour has neither taste nor smell. For a pleasant taste, add honey, cinnamon, vanilla, berries, chicory.
you will need:
- flax seeds - 1 tbsp. l. ;
- water – 0. 5 l. ;
- cinnamon, honey, berries, chicory, vanilla - to taste.
Method of preparation: Pour boiling water over the seeds. Leave the mixture for 8 hours. The jelly does not need to be squeezed. Add cinnamon, vanilla, honey, berries to it. Calorie content: per 100 g of jelly (in 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 provides a comprehensive cleansing of the body, normalizes the work of the digestive system, cleans the blood, liver, improves the work 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, sour cherry, lemon) - 1 teaspoon.
How to prepare: Cover the flax seeds with water. Cook the mixture in a water bath for 30 minutes. Then wrap the bowl with the soup in a warm cloth and leave the solution for another 3-4 hours. Strain the soup. Add the pickle juice. Calorie content: per 100 g of decoction with pomegranate juice - 5. 4 kcal.
What to remember
You can consume flax seeds only after consulting a doctor. The product brings great benefits to the body, but it can also cause harm. The daily dose of seeds is 5-50 g. Abuse leads to diarrhea and flatulence. Store flax products (seeds, flour, oil) in a dark, cool place and always in an airtight container.