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Flaxseed · Linum usitatissimum
Seeds & Nuts
Flaxseed
Linum usitatissimum
Tiny seeds with a useful mix of fiber, plant fats, and lignans — flaxseed is also called linseed. Brown and golden flaxseed have similar uses.
Benefits
its fiber helps soften and add bulk to stools
its plant fats and fiber support healthy cholesterol levels
its soluble fiber acts as food for helpful bacteria living in the digestive tract
its lignans are plant compounds that interact gently with the body's hormone system
They will see the photograph and what it helps with.
Why they work
forms a soft gel with water and helps stools move more easily
adds bulk to food moving through the gut
a plant-based omega-3 fat that supports heart health
natural plant compounds found in especially high amounts in flaxseed
How to use it for the specific effect
use ground flaxseed rather than whole seeds, and drink plenty of water with it
stir it into porridge, yogurt, smoothies, soups, or baked food
begin with a small amount and increase gradually if your digestion is comfortable
choose ground flaxseed. Flaxseed oil contains the plant fat but not the seed's fiber or lignans
Key active compounds
a plant-based omega-3 fat
the two main types of fiber in the seed
plant compounds concentrated in the outer part of the seed
helps make flaxseed more filling than flaxseed oil
Caution
dry flaxseed can swell and may be difficult to swallow
because flaxseed forms a thick gel in the gut, take prescribed medicines at least two hours before or two hours after eating it
How we chose it to buy online
We check every product so you don't have to. A flaxseed only makes our list if:
- Whole flaxseed or ground flaxseed clearly named — flaxseed oil is a different product
- Freshly ground or packed in a sealed bag — ground flaxseed loses freshness faster than whole seed
- No added sugar or flavoring — plain seed is easier to measure and use
- Milled finely — fine ground flaxseed is easier to mix into food
- Stored in a cool, dark place — ground flaxseed and flaxseed oil are easily damaged by heat and light
- Clear seed type — brown and golden flaxseed are both acceptable; the label should not hide the type
If no product meets these standards, we don't list one. No exceptions for affiliates.
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