Flax: The Magical Seeds

Hey hey!

Today we’re talking all about one of my favorite seeds – flax. You’ve seen me use them on everything from jalapeño poppers to acai bowls, but what are these seeds and what are their benefits? 

First, I love to call flax “magical seeds.” They are small, brown, tan or golden-colored and are the richest form of a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid in the world. Foods high in omega-3s help lower the risk for heart disease and reduce inflammation, and are needed for proper neurological function, mood regulation, hormone production and more. 

This is no new trend. Flax seeds have been around for over 6,000 years, and could have been the world’s first superfood!

Benefits

• Lowers cholesterol
• Naturally gluten-free 
• Improves digestion
• Supports fat loss  
• Reduces sugar cravings 
• Reduces inflammation
• Improves mood 
• Boosts immunity
• Helps with concentration and brain function
• Improves skin appearance

Nutrition Facts

The nutritional facts of flax seeds are incredible. These little seeds are PACKED with minerals and vitamins. In a 3 tablespoon serving, you get: 

• Omega-3: 6,338mg
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 6g
• Vitamin B1: 31% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA)
• Manganese: 35% RDA
• Magnesium: 30% RDA
• Phosphorus: 19% RDA
• Selenium: 10% RDA

Plus, SO much more! 

Simple Ways to Use

I’m a huge fan of combining seeds, so I mix together flax, hemp and chia seeds and sprinkle them on yogurt and fruit. One of my fav snacks is watermelon chunks topped with yogurt and seeds. It sounds strange, but trust me, it’s so incredibly yummy. Bryan tried it once, and it wasn’t his cup of tea. But hey! It’s not for everyone. 

If you’re like Bryan and don’t like the thought of eating seeds straight up, you could bake ground flax seeds into muffins, cookies and breads. It’s an easy and SWEET way to get the nutrients you need! 

Other fun ways to eat flax seeds: add them to granola, mix with water as an egg substitute, add 1-2 tablespoons to your morning smoothie. 

Brands I love

• 365 Everyday Value
• Arrowhead Mills
• Spectrum 
• Bob’s Red Mill

Okay, you guys. Now you know why I love these seeds so much.

I’m off to get ready for work, and hopefully not sit in a 1.5 hour commute. 

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{References: The Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition}