In the article we discuss flax seeds, their benefits and harms and show you how to take them properly for medicinal purposes and for weight loss. By implementing 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 "liri" means "most useful". And this is 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 known as a valuable food supplement and a universal remedy for many different diseases. How are flax seeds collected? The raw materials are collected in September. Fruits are collected (flattened spherical boxes) containing about 10 seeds. The seeds taken out of the boxes should be dried in places protected from direct sunlight.
How to store flax seeds
Flaxseeds are susceptible to spoilage and oxidation. Therefore, store the product in the refrigerator using hermetically sealed containers. Whole grains when stored in the refrigerator retain all their beneficial properties for 1 year.
If you buy flax seeds in a store, pay attention to:
- best before date;
- the integrity of the packaging (it must be vacuum-sealed);
- no signs of moisture.
The composition and beneficial properties of flax seeds
Flax seeds include 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;
- unsaturated fatty acids: Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9;
- insoluble and soluble fiber;
- mono- and disaccharides.
- Medicinal properties of flaxseed
Traditional medicine recommends the use of flax seeds to treat a variety of ailments.
A 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 infections;
- arthritis, gout, rheumatism, heel spur;
- 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 flaxseed helps.
Linseed oil
The main feature of linseed oil is its high content of unsaturated fatty acids, which enter the body only from external sources. It is better to buy a cold pressed product. It is during this production that useful substances are stored. High-quality oil does not contain sediment and has a pleasant sweet-nutty aroma. Exposure to light and heat causes the oil to oxidize (start to taste bitter). This product is extremely harmful to the body and can even cause cancer.
Flaxseed meal
Many recipes use ground flax seeds. You can make flour yourself using a coffee grinder, or buy a ready-made product.
Flax seeds, flour and oil
Homemade flaxseed meal has a short shelf life - only 6-16 weeks, if refrigerated in an airtight container. The store-bought product does not contain oily ingredients, so it can be stored for a long time.
Flax seeds - benefit or harm
The main benefit of flax seeds lies in the high content of 3 main components:
- Fiber - improves the functioning of the digestive tract, removes harmful cholesterol.
- Unsaturated acids - ensure the restoration of body cells, prevent the occurrence of blood clots.
- Lingins have antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial effects. Restores hormonal levels in women.
- The therapeutic effect of flax seeds 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:
- lowering cholesterol;
- strengthening the immune system;
- normalization of liver function;
- protection from vitamin deficiency;
- reduce sugar;
- reduce the risk of blood clots;
- normalization of high blood pressure;
- preventing the formation of tumors (including malignant ones);
- cleanse the intestines;
- activate peristalsis;
- improving fat metabolism;
- removes harmful substances and toxins from the body;
- provides improvement of skin and hair structure at the cellular level;
- promote rapid healing of the skin and mucous membranes;
- elimination of sexual dysfunctions in men;
- regulate hormonal levels, thus improving the condition during menopause;
- have a laxative effect;
- relieves a strong dry cough.
Contraindications
The use of flax seeds is prohibited for:
- intestinal obstruction;
- individual intolerance;
- gall bladder or urinary stones;
- exacerbation of cholecystitis or pancreatitis;
- liver cirrhosis, hepatitis;
- endometritis, uterine fibroid, polycystic disease in women;
- inflammation of the prostate gland in men.
Abuse of the product can cause bloating and diarrhea. The allowed daily dose is from 5 to 50 g.
How to take flax seeds for weight loss
Many women actively use flax seeds 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 decoction or infusion, as well as an additional ingredient for jelly, cocktails, tea, compote, diet dishes, etc.
Drinks with flax seeds will prepare the body for food digestion, activate the metabolic process and prevent the absorption of fats through the stomach walls. To lose weight, take ground flaxseed (2 tablespoons) twice a day with a glass of water. To increase the therapeutic effect, drink plenty of fluids (at least 2 liters) throughout the day.
Flax stew
Pour 2 tbsp. l. Flax seeds 500 ml of boiled water and boil on low heat for about half an hour, after boiling, then let the liquid cool and strain. This drink should be consumed 25-30 minutes before meals, 100 ml.
Linen infusion
The infusion is made at night, pour 2 tablespoons into a thermos. l. flax seeds, pour 1 liter of boiling water over them and let it boil until morning. Drink the strained drink 20 minutes before meals, in an amount of 100-150 ml.
Flaxseed drink for weight loss
In addition to the usual decoction or infusion, you can add flax seeds to your favorite drinks, the effect will be no less effective. Compote - cook compote with red berries, add flax seeds to it, equal to 1 tablespoon. l. seeds for 500 ml of jelly (compost), let them cool. The jelly should be runny at first, as it will thicken after adding the flax.
Tea - add 1 teaspoon of boiled tea. flax seeds, green tea is more suitable for weight loss. You can drink this drink no more than 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, replace a lunch and an evening dish with it.
Linen drinks must always be fresh, the shelf life of ready-made decoctions and infusions is 24 hours; after 24 hours they lose their useful 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 functioning 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 contains a lot of fiber and is low in carbohydrates, so when in the stomach, the seeds start to swell, making you feel full with less food eaten. In addition, flax helps to accelerate metabolic processes, the body will burn more calories and burn accumulated fat reserves.
Flaxseeds for colon cleansing
Flax seeds help cleanse the intestines of toxins, reduce sludge in the body and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
Classic cleansing ingredients:
- flax seeds - 50 g.
- Water - 1 l.
Method of preparation: Pour boiling water over the flax seeds in a glass container. Be sure to close it with a lid. Wrap the container tightly and let it infuse for 6 hours. Drain before use.
How to 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) should be drunk during the day. Drink the drink only warm. Do this cleanse every day for 2 weeks. You can repeat the course only after 6 months.
Result: the infusion cleanses the body of toxins, lowers cholesterol, relieves constipation and activates intestinal motility. Flax mucus provides healing of mucosal ulcers. Regular consumption of the drink cleans the blood, the liver and improves the condition of the skin.
Cleansing with kefir
Flax seeds with kefir
Ingredients:
- flax seeds - 15-45 g.
- Low-fat kefir - 100 ml.
Method of preparation: Mix kefir with flax seed. You can use whole grains or ground flour. How to use: Use flax with kefir in the morning, on an empty stomach, instead of breakfast. The cleaning course lasts 3 weeks. Do it according to the following scheme - during the first week - use 15 g of kefir seeds, 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.
The result: flaxseed with kefir removes toxins, improves the appearance of the skin, restores the intestinal microflora and activates 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 gall bladder problems;
- those suffering from exacerbation of pancreatitis, colitis, flatulence.
Be sure to consult your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- pancreatitis;
- cholecystitis
- cirrhosis of the liver;
- hepatitis;
- gallstones (causes abdominal pain);
- low pressure;
- intestinal inflammation.
Check with your doctor if you are taking the following medicines:
- from allergies,
- antidepressants,
- contraceptive pill.
Flax improves blood clotting, can lower blood pressure or slow the absorption of medications. The use of oil and flaxseed may be incompatible with other medications.
Including flaxseed in your diet ensures:
- normalization of hormonal levels;
- the fight against chronic diseases of the digestive system;
- reduction of constipation;
- minimizing the development of serious pathologies of the nervous system in the fetus;
- protecting the child from viral infections.
It is strictly forbidden to take flax seeds 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 right regimen for taking flax seeds for pregnant women.
When breastfeeding
Active use of flax seeds during lactation is undesirable. Some substances that enter the body of a child with milk can complicate its functioning. But sometimes doctors recommend flaxseed in small quantities for nursing mothers (for some pathologies). Pregnant and breastfeeding women can best consume the product by adding it to baked goods or salads.
For constipation
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 2 spoons. . .
- Warm boiled water - 1 tablespoon.
Method of preparation: 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 to clean the intestines naturally. For chronic constipation, a 7-day course of treatment is recommended.
Ground flax seeds
For pancreatitis
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 2 spoons. l.
- Water - 0. 4 ml.
Honey - to taste, but not more than 2 tablespoons. l.
Method of preparation: Grind the raw materials and pour boiling water. Cook the mass on low heat for 10 minutes. Then leave the mass for 1 hour. Strain the flax seed jelly through a sieve. Add honey according to your taste. How to use: Take 200 ml 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 gel provides an anti-inflammatory and astringent effect on the pancreas. Fiber activates the removal of toxins and accelerates metabolism.
For gastritis
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 1 tablespoon. l.
- Water - 0. 5 l.
Method of preparation: Pour boiling water over the raw materials. Leave the product for 1 hour, shaking it occasionally. Strain the drink through a sieve. How to use: Drink the infusion twice a day on an empty stomach, 200-250 ml. Continue treatment for 1 month. Result: The infusion gives 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 the flax seed. Leave the mixture for about 10 minutes. Then add 150 ml of cooled boiled 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 lower cholesterol
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 1 tablespoon. l.
- Aloe juice - 0. 5 tablespoons. l.
- Water - 1 tablespoon.
Method of preparation: Grind the seeds. Pour boiling water and leave for about 2 hours. Add the 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 meals. Continue therapy for 1-3 months. Result: The drink normalizes cholesterol, improves the condition of blood vessels and prevents the development of atherosclerosis.
Preparation of flaxseeds for use in diet foods that include flaxseeds for weight loss:
Hercules with flax seeds
Soak 2 tbsp. l. flax seeds in warm water. Cook porridge from 100-150 g of oats, add puffed flax seeds to it and mix. If you want, you can add a small amount of finely chopped fruit or dried fruit; apples and prunes are perfect.
Porridge with sprouted wheat and flax seeds
3 tablespoons. l. sprouted wheat and 1 tbsp. l. flax seeds, soak in boiling water for two hours, then drain the remaining liquid. Add 50 g of coarsely chopped apples and some dates previously soaked in water to the porridge.
Dry fruits and flax seeds for weight loss
Soak 2 tbsp. l. flax seeds in cold water at a temperature of 40-45 degrees and wait until they swell. Pass the dried fruits scalded with boiling water in a meat grinder: prunes, dates and dried apricots - 3 pieces each. all. Add flax seeds and 1 tablespoon to the resulting minced meat. l. rice flour, mix the ingredients thoroughly (if you want, you can add a little cocoa powder, but the dish will turn out to be higher in calories). Roll into small balls, roll in coconut and refrigerate for a few hours. The most delicious diet dessert is ready!
Flax seeds in cosmetology
The useful product can be used externally. This allows you to eliminate a number of cosmetic problems and ensures healthy skin and hair.
Face mask
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 1 tablespoon. l.
- boiling water - 0. 5 tbsp.
- Cream (for sensitive and dry skin) - 1 tablespoon. l.
- Oatmeal (for oily and problematic skin) - 1 tablespoon. l.
How to cook: Pour boiling water over the flax seed. Boil the product in a water bath for 15 minutes. Strain the juice. Add the required ingredient (oatmeal or cream).
How to use: Apply the product to cleansed facial skin. After 15 minutes, wash it off. Repeat the mask 2-3 times a week. Result: The product cleans the skin, nourishes it, narrows the pores and eliminates fat. The mask softens wrinkles and normalizes metabolism in the epidermis.
Hair mask
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 2 tablespoons. l.
- boiling water - 125 ml.
Method of preparation: Pour boiling water over the raw materials and thoroughly beat the mixture in a blender. How to 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 provide silky and soft hair. It strengthens the hair follicle and improves hair growth.
Hair mask after flax
Flax seeds - recipe.
In alternative medicine, there are universal tools that can be taken for the treatment and prevention of various pathologies.
Kissel
Recipe description: Kissel has neither taste nor smell. To ensure a pleasant taste, add honey, cinnamon, vanilla, berries, chicory.
You will need:
- flax seeds - 1 tablespoon. l. ;
- water - 0. 5 l. ;
- cinnamon, honey, berries, chicory, vanilla - to taste.
Method of preparation: Pour the seeds with boiling water. Leave the mixture for 8 hours. There is no need to drain the jelly. Add cinnamon, vanilla, honey, berries to it. Calorie content: for 100 g of jelly (in its pure form, without additives) - 5. 2 kcal, and 100 g of jelly with the addition of honey (1 tablespoon) - 8. 4 kcal.
decoction
Description of the recipe: The decoction ensures comprehensive cleansing of the body, normalizes the functioning of the digestive system, cleans the blood, liver, improves the functioning of the kidneys and urinary system. It is better to add sour juice to the drink.
You will need:
- seeds - 1 tablespoon. l. ;
- water - 0. 5 l. ;
- sour cream (pomegranate, cherry, lemon) - 1 tsp.
Method of preparation: Cover the flax seeds with water. Boil the mixture in a water bath for 30 minutes. Then wrap the container with the broth in a warm cloth and leave the solution for another 3-4 hours. Strain the juice. Add sour juice to it. Caloric content: for 100 g of stew with pomegranate juice - 5. 4 kcal.
What to remember
You can consume flax seeds only after consulting your 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 causes diarrhea and bloating. Store flax products (seeds, flour, oil) in a dark, cool place and always in a hermetically sealed container.