In the article, we discuss flax seeds, their benefits and harms, and tell you how to take them correctly for medicinal purposes and for weight loss. By applying our tips, you can improve the health of your body, get rid of extra pounds, and improve the appearance of your skin and hair.
What is flaxseed? Translated from Latin, the word "linen" means "the most useful". And this is not surprising. The plant is used in cosmetology, medicine and cooking. Its stems are used to produce highly hygroscopic and environmentally friendly fabrics.
Flaxseed is known as a valuable food supplement and a universal remedy for many different ailments. How is linseed harvested? Raw materials are collected in September. Fruits are collected containing about 10 seeds (flat spherical boxes). The seeds removed from 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 retain all their beneficial properties for 1 year when stored in the refrigerator.
If you buy flax seeds in a store, pay attention to:
- best before date;
- the integrity of the packaging (it must be sealed with a vacuum);
- no signs of moisture.
Composition and useful properties of linseed
Flaxseed contains a complete set of useful elements necessary to ensure the normal functioning of the human body:
- vitamins: B, C, E, K, PP and choline groups;
- macroelements: Ca, K, Mg, Na and P;
- trace elements: Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and Se;
- polyunsaturated fatty acids: Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9;
- insoluble and soluble fiber;
- mono- and disaccharides.
- Medicinal properties of flax seeds
Traditional medicine recommends the use of flax seeds for the treatment of various diseases.
The unique product helps in therapy:
- pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, colitis, intestinal atony, enteritis, ulcerative lesions, food poisoning, constipation);
- respiratory system and throat diseases;
- weakened immune system;
- inflammation of the bladder and kidneys;
- sinusitis;
- hypertension;
- diabetes mellitus;
- liver dysfunction;
- tuberculosis;
- parasitic infections;
- arthritis, gout, rheumatism, heel spurs;
- neuralgic pain;
- furunculosis, barley, burns;
- oncological diseases;
- cardiovascular diseases (atherosclerosis, stroke, thrombophlebitis, ischemia, myocardial infarction).
And this is not a complete list of pathologies that flaxseed helps.
Linseed oil
The main feature of linseed oil is that it contains a lot 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 it retains useful substances. High-quality oil does not contain sediment and has a pleasant sweet-nutty taste. Exposure to light and heat causes the oil to oxidize (it starts to taste bitter). This product is extremely harmful to the body and can even cause cancer.
Flaxseed flour
Many recipes use ground flaxseed. You can make flour yourself using a coffee grinder or buy a ready-made product.
Flaxseed, flour and oil
Homemade flax meal has a short shelf life - only 6-16 weeks, if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Since the store-bought product does not contain oil components, it can be stored for a long time.
Flaxseed - benefit or harm
The main advantage of flaxseed is the high content of 3 main components:
- Fiber - improves the functioning of the digestive system, removes harmful cholesterol.
- Polyunsaturated acids - provide regeneration of body cells, prevent blood clotting.
- Lignans have antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial effects. Restores hormonal levels in women.
- The healing effect of flaxseed is enhanced by vitamins (B, E) and trace elements (magnesium, iodine, manganese, calcium, chromium, potassium, copper, iron).
Benefits for the body
Flaxseed has a comprehensive positive effect on the body:
- reduce cholesterol;
- strengthen the immune system;
- normalize liver function;
- protect against vitamin deficiency;
- reduce sugar;
- reduce the risk of blood clots;
- normalize high blood pressure;
- prevent the formation of tumors (including malignant ones);
- cleanse the intestines;
- activate peristalsis;
- improve fat metabolism;
- remove harmful substances and toxins from the body;
- improves the structure of the skin and hair at the cellular level;
- promotes rapid healing of the skin and mucous membranes;
- eliminate sexual dysfunctions in men;
- regulate hormonal levels, thereby improving the condition during menopause;
- has a laxative effect;
- relieves severe dry cough.
Contraindications
The use of linseed is prohibited:
- intestinal obstruction;
- individual intolerance;
- stones in the bladder or gall bladder;
- exacerbation of cholecystitis or pancreatitis;
- liver cirrhosis, hepatitis;
- endometritis, uterine myoma, polycystic disease in women;
- inflammation of the prostate gland in men.
Abuse of the product can cause bloating and diarrhea. The permissible daily dose is between 5 and 50 g.
How to take flax seeds for weight loss
Many women actively use flaxseed 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, promotes rapid bowel cleansing.
- Acids activate metabolic processes and accelerate fat burning.
- For weight loss, flax seeds can be used in the form of decoction or infusion, as well as jelly, cocktails, tea, compote, diet food, etc.
Flaxseed drinks will prepare the body to digest food, activate the metabolic process and prevent the absorption of fats through the walls of the stomach. For weight loss, take ground flaxseed (2 tablespoons) with a glass of water twice a day. To increase the therapeutic effect, it is necessary to drink a lot of liquid (at least 2 liters) during the day.
Linen decoction
Pour 2 tbsp. l. Flax seeds in 500 ml of boiled water and cook on low heat for about half an hour, after boiling, cool the broth and strain. 100 ml of this drink should be drunk 25-30 minutes before meals.
Linen infusion
The infusion is prepared at night, pour 2 tablespoons into a thermos. l. flax seeds, pour 1 liter of boiling water on it and let it brew until morning. Drink the filtered drink 20 minutes before meals, in the amount of 100-150 ml.
Drinks with flax seeds 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 berry compote, add 1 tablespoon of flax seeds to it. l. seeds per 500 ml of jelly (compot), cool. The jelly must be liquid at first, as it will thicken after adding the flax.
Tea – add 1 teaspoon to brewed tea. flax seeds, green tea are 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. flaxseed oil and 1 tbsp. l. add flax seeds, a few drops of lemon juice. This cocktail can be consumed 3 times a day. For best results, alternate with one lunch and one dinner.
Linen drinks should always be fresh, ready-made decoctions and infusions have a shelf life of 24 hours, after 24 hours they lose their beneficial properties and can be dangerous. Use a 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 correct 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 once in the stomach, the seeds begin to swell and create a feeling of satiety with less food eaten. In addition, flax helps to accelerate metabolic processes, the body will burn more calories and burn stored fat reserves.
Flaxseed to cleanse the intestines
Flaxseed helps cleanse the intestines of toxins, reduce mucus in the body and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
Classic cleaning agents:
- Linseed - 50 g.
- Water - 1 l.
Method of preparation: Pour boiling water over flax seeds in a glass container. Make sure to close with a lid. Wrap the container well and leave to brew for 6 hours. Filter before use.
How to use: Drink the first portion (150 ml) on an empty stomach 30 minutes before breakfast. You can add some honey to the drink. The whole 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.
Conclusion: the infusion cleanses the body of toxins, reduces cholesterol, eliminates constipation, and activates intestinal motility. Linen mucus provides healing of mucosal ulcers. Regular use of the drink cleans the blood, the liver, and improves the condition of the skin.
Cleaning with kefir
Flax seeds with kefir
Ingredients:
- Linseed - 15-45 g.
- low-fat kefir - 100 ml.
Method of preparation: Mix kefir with flax seeds. You can use whole grain or crushed flour. How to use: Use kefir on an empty stomach instead of breakfast. The cleaning course lasts 3 weeks. Carry out according to the following scheme - during the first week - use 15 g of seeds with kefir, in the second - 30 g; in the third - increase the amount of seeds to 45 g. You can repeat the course only after six months.
Result: flaxseed with kefir removes toxins, improves skin appearance, restores intestinal microflora, activates peristalsis. Weight loss occurs due to the normalization of metabolism.
It does not cause any particular harm, but it is not recommended to take it in the following cases:
- pregnant women;
- people with gallbladder problems;
- those suffering from exacerbation of pancreatitis, colitis, flatulence.
Be sure to consult your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- pancreatitis;
- cholecystitis
- liver cirrhosis;
- hepatitis;
- gallstones (provokes colic);
- low pressure;
- intestinal inflammation.
Check with your doctor if you are taking the following medications:
- from allergies,
- antidepressants,
- birth control pills.
Flax can increase blood clotting, lower blood pressure, or slow the absorption of medications. The use of linseed oil and seeds may be incompatible with other medications.
Include flaxseed in your diet:
- normalization of hormonal levels;
- fight against chronic diseases of the digestive system;
- reducing constipation;
- to minimize the development of severe pathologies of the nervous system in the fetus;
- protect the baby 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 low or premature birth. Only a doctor can prescribe and choose the right scheme for taking flax seeds for pregnant women.
When breastfeeding
Active use of flaxseed during lactation is undesirable. Some substances that enter the child's body with milk can make it difficult for him to function. But sometimes doctors recommend a small amount of flax seeds to nursing mothers (for certain pathologies). Pregnant and lactating women can best consume the product by adding it to baked goods or salads.
For constipation
Ingredients:
- Linseed - 2 x. q. . .
- hot boiled water - 1 tbsp.
How to prepare: Flaxseed can be ground if the whole grain is difficult to swallow. How to use: Take flax seeds with water in the evening. Repeat the procedure for 2-3 days. Result: The product activates peristalsis and helps to clean the intestines naturally. A 7-day course of treatment is recommended for chronic constipation.
Crushed linseed
For pancreatitis
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 2 tbsp. 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 over them. Cook the mixture on low heat for 10 minutes. Then keep the mixture for 1 hour. Strain the linseed jelly. Add honey to taste. How to use: Drink 200 ml twice a day on an empty stomach, 15-20 minutes before meals. The duration of treatment is from 3 weeks to several months.
Conclusion: Flaxseed gel has an anti-inflammatory and astringent effect on the pancreas. Fiber activates the removal of toxins and accelerates metabolism.
For gastritis
Ingredients:
- Linseed - 1 tbsp. l.
- Water - 0. 5 l.
Method of preparation: Pour boiling water over the raw materials. Leave the product for 1 hour, shaking occasionally. Filter the drink. How to use: 200-250 ml of infusion is drunk twice a day on an empty stomach. Continue treatment for 1 month. Conclusion: Infusion has an anti-inflammatory effect. Treatment relieves pain, nausea and heartburn.
For diabetes
Ingredients:
- Seeds - 2 tbsp. l.
- boiling water - 100 ml.
How to cook: Pour boiling water over flax seeds. Leave the mixture for about 10 minutes. Then add 150 ml of boiled cooled water. Instructions for use: Drink the infusion once a day - in the morning on an empty stomach or 20 minutes before meals. Treatment lasts 10 days - 1 month. Conclusion: The drink reduces sugar well. The seeds contain monosaccharides, so people with diabetes should consume flax seeds only after consulting a doctor.
To reduce cholesterol
Ingredients:
- Linseed - 1 tbsp. l.
- Aloe juice - 0. 5 tbsp. l.
- Water - 1 tablespoon.
How to prepare: Crush the seeds. Pour boiling water over them and leave for about 2 hours. Add aloe juice. No need to filter the drink. How to use: Take 0. 5 cups in the morning on an empty stomach and 4 hours after eating in the evening. Continue treatment for 1-3 months. Conclusion: The drink normalizes cholesterol, improves the condition of blood vessels and prevents the development of atherosclerosis.
Preparation of flax seeds for use in diet foods containing flax seeds for weight loss:
Hercules with linseed
Soak 2 tbsp. l. flaxseed in hot water. Cook porridge from 100-150 g of oatmeal, add swollen flax seeds and mix. If you like, 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 tbsp. l. sprouted wheat and 1 tbsp. l. linseed, soak in boiled water for two hours, then drain the remaining liquid. Add 50 g of coarsely grated apples and a few dates previously soaked in water to the porridge.
Dried fruits and flax seeds for weight loss
Soak 2 tbsp. l. Keep flax seeds in cooled water at 40-45 degrees and wait until they swell. Put dried fruits cooked in boiling water through a meat grinder: plums, dates and dried apricots - 3 pieces each. everyone. Add flax seeds and 1 tbsp. l. rice flour, mix the ingredients well (if you want, you can add a little cocoa powder, but the calorie content of the dish will be higher). Roll into small balls, roll in coconut and refrigerate for a few hours. The most delicious diet dessert is ready!
Flaxseed in cosmetology
Useful product can be used externally. It allows to eliminate a number of cosmetic problems, makes skin and hair look healthy.
Face mask
Ingredients:
- Linseed - 1 tbsp. l.
- boiling water - 0. 5 tbsp.
- Cream (for sensitive and dry skin) - 1 tbsp. l.
- Oatmeal (for oily and problem skin) - 1 tbsp. l.
How to cook: Pour boiling water over flax seeds. Cook the product in a water bath for 15 minutes. Strain the broth. Add the necessary component (oatmeal or cream).
How to use: Apply the product to cleansed facial skin. Wash off after 15 minutes. Repeat the mask 2-3 times a week. Result: The product cleans the skin, nourishes it, narrows the pores, and removes oiliness. The mask smoothes out wrinkles and normalizes metabolism in the epidermis.
Hair mask
Ingredients:
- Flax seeds - 2 tbsp. l.
- boiling water - 125 ml.
Method of preparation: pour boiling water over the raw materials and beat the mixture well in a blender. How to use: Apply the hot mask to the roots and along the hair. Put a plastic cap on your head and wrap it with a towel. Wash off the mask after 2 hours. Repeat the procedure 2 times a week. Result: The mask will provide silky and smooth hair. It strengthens the hair follicle and improves hair growth.
Hair mask after the canvas
Flaxseed - recipes.
Alternative medicine has universal remedies that can be taken for the treatment and prevention of various pathologies.
Kissel
Recipe description: Kissel has neither taste nor smell. Add honey, cinnamon, vanilla, berries, chicory to ensure a pleasant taste.
You will need:
- linseed - 1 tbsp. l. ;
- water - 0. 5 l;
- cinnamon, honey, berries, chicory, vanilla - to taste.
Method of preparation: Pour boiling water over the seeds. Leave the mixture for 8 hours. No need to strain the gel. Add cinnamon, vanilla, honey, berries to it. Calorie content: for 100 g of jelly (in pure form, without additives) - 5. 2 kcal, and 100 g of jelly with added honey (1 tsp) - 8. 4 kcal.
meek
Description of the recipe: The decoction provides a thorough cleansing of the body, normalizes the activity of the digestive system, cleans the blood, liver, and improves the activity of the kidneys and urinary system. It is better to add sour water to the drink.
You will need:
- seeds - 1 tbsp. l. ;
- water - 0. 5 l;
- sour juice (pomegranate, cherry, lemon) - 1 tsp.
Method of preparation: cover the linseed with water. Boil the mixture in a water bath for 30 minutes. Then wrap the container with a warm cloth with broth and leave the solution for another 3-4 hours. Strain the broth. Add sour water to it. Calorie content: for 100 g of decoction with pomegranate juice - 5. 4 kcal.
What to remember
You can consume flax seeds only after consulting a doctor. The product brings great benefits to the body, but at the same time it can cause harm. The daily dose of seeds is 5-50 g. Abuse leads to diarrhea and flatulence. Store flax products (seeds, flour, oil) in a dark, cool place and always in a hermetically sealed container.