The Cancer-Fighting Benefits of Flaxseed

 

What is Flaxseed?

From  the name, you can tell that it is the seed of the flax plant. Its  fibers are woven to make linen fabric and the oil (referred to as  linseed oil) is used in wood finishing.

Flaxseed sometimes imparts a mild, nutty essence when added to food but other ingredients easily overshadow the taste.

 

What Makes Flaxseed So Healthy?

Flaxseed has an amazing amount of nutrients and is the best source of plant-based  omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fats are healthy fats shown to reduce  levels of cholesterol in your system. Other sources of omega-3s include  fatty fish and walnuts. Flaxseed also contains nine amino acids that,  when appearing together, make a complete protein like those found in  dairy and meat. 

Their high fiber content (approximately 3 grams per tablespoon), is hugely beneficial to your overall digestive health.   

 

What Else Can Flaxseeds Do?

The benefits of flaxseed make it a superfood you need to add to your anti-cancer eating plan.  Ongoing studies like the one at the University of Illinois show that  these sesame seed-sized kernels may prevent serious illness. 

Experts  believe this is due to the phytochemicals and phytoestrogens as well as  the omega-3 fatty acids contained within. These compounds working  together provide a strong protective benefit to our bodies.

 

Top 3 Health Benefits of Flaxseed

• Protection against heart disease. The  human body cannot produce omega-3 on its own and you must have an  abundance of these valuable compounds for many critical functions.  Consuming foods rich in omega-3 reduces the risk of developing  cardiovascular issues. Some studies are working to prove that heart  disease is reversible. Arterial plaque formation can be slowed and  prevented by omega-3. Scientists are currently researching whether or  not omega-3 can remove existing plaque buildup. Soluble fiber contained in flaxseed helps “scrub” the body clean of fat-soluble waste and toxic compounds  that develop as a result of our body’s metabolic process. The  incredible antioxidant properties found in lignans also assist by  fighting against the free radicals that cause body-wide inflammation and  cellular damage.
•  Prevention of osteoporosis. Post-menopausal  women are at the greatest risk for loss of minerals, density, and  strength of their bones. Findings from a research study at the National  Research Center in Cairo, Egypt, show that omega-3 fatty acids present  in flaxseed protect the bones and prevent bone demineralization and loss of density.   
•  Cancer protection. Regular consumption of flaxseed may protect the body from colon cancer,  prostate cancer, and breast cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids prevent  cancerous cells from latching onto healthy cells. If cancerous tumors  attempt to form, the lignans contained in flaxseed stop the formation of new blood supply (anti-angiogenesis) that feeds tumor growth. In  other words, they starve the tumor of their supply of oxygen and  nutrients. If cancer cells can’t get these basic requirements, they are  unable to multiply and spread.

To achieve the most health benefit from flaxseed it is best to use freshly milled or crushed seeds.  This allows your body to efficiently  absorb the available nutrients contained within its tough exterior. The  shell is where the fiber originates so make sure your seeds are milled  or processed properly. Flaxseed  oil capsules, available in most health food stores, may not provide the  benefits you’re looking for. Processing removes the crucial lignans and  unless they’re added back to the oil, you won’t get the full benefits of  flaxseed.   

By Ty Bollinger 

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/cancer-fighting-benefits-of-flaxseed/