Flax seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition and a secret among some of the top athletes in the world.  This super food is packed full of vital minerals and vitamins that help keep the body healthy.

Due to their simplicity, and their ability to be added to pretty much any meal imaginable, flax seeds are a great option for anyone looking to take their diet to the next level.

In fact, the origins of these seeds can be traced back over 6,000 years ago to an area of the Middle East where many of the biblical accounts were written about.  Due to its many uses, Ancient Hebrew texts describe flax seeds as being a “gift from God.”  Fast forward 6,000 years later and we can see that flax seeds are beginning to reemerge as one of the top super foods in the world.

Below you will find the top 5 benefits of consuming flax seeds daily!

1. Flax seeds Contain Essential Fatty Acids

Flax seeds are jam packed of essential omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.  In fact, they’re one of the highest plant sources of omega 3’s in the world.  One study found that flax seeds were extremely beneficial in preventing cardiovascular disease due to the Alpha Linoleic Acid found in the seeds (1).

However, it’s important to understand that plant sources such as flax seeds do not contain DHA and EPA, two Omega 3’s that are essential and only found in animal products.  That being said, cod liver oil is an excellent source of both DHA and EPA.

2. Excellent For the Digestive System

flax seeds contain mucilaginous properties that are extremely beneficial for keeping the digestive tract healthy.  This mucilaginous activity is only found in a few other foods such as chia seeds and aloe vera, both of which are excellent for the digestive system as well.  flax seeds also contain high amount of fiber.  This fiber is necessary in order to feed the beneficial bacteria in our gut (2).  In return, the gut bacteria produce vitamins that keep us healthy.

Although we personally believe animal foods are more important in order to maintain a proper gut microbiome, flax seeds can make a great addition due to its amazing nutritional profile that is not found in any other food.

3. Extremely High in Antioxidants

Flax seeds contain a very unique antioxidant and polyphenol called lignans. Experimental evidence in animals has shown very clear anti carcinogenic effects of flax seed in many types of cancer (3).  The antioxidant found in flax also helps protect the body against free radical damage which is the number one cause of premature aging.

Polyphenols such as lignans also have antiviral and antibacterial properties.  One study showed that polyphenols help support probiotic growth in the gut and help eliminate yeast and candida (4).

4. Great for Controlling Blood Sugar

Since Flax is jam packed with fiber, it’s an excellent option for those looking to control their blood sugar levels naturally.  Studies have shown that fiber has a positive effect on metabolic health and helps decrease blood glucose excursions (5).

5. Great for Moisturizing the Skin

Since flax is extremely high in omega 3, it’s great at adding moisture to the skin and making it appear more elastic.  Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to improve skin health in numerous studies(6)(7).  Dry scaly skin is a clear sign of an essential fatty acid deficiency.

Where to buy Flax seeds

Flax seeds can be purchased at most health food stores.  Even big chain grocery stores are beginning to carry flax seeds due to their popularity.  We personally like Spectrum Whole Seeds because it’s certified organic and they always come fresh.  Also, the seeds have not been crushed or powdered like most other brands.  Crushing or powdering flax seeds causes them to oxidize fairly quickly and renders them useless once they have finally reached the consumer.