How to Use Flaxseeds to Support Liver Health
Flax seed, a tiny kernel from the flax plant, is an ingredient known in health circles as a great addition for anyone looking for liver-friendly foods.
People at risk for fatty liver as well as many chronic liver diseases have been helped by this natural food.
It is capable of reducing liver inflammation, reducing blood sugar levels, fighting obesity and easing constipation, as well as improving cholesterol amounts.
We will discuss its main properties, which are fiber, lignans and omega-3s.
Flax seed has been round for centuries, with evidence of it being cultivated in Babylon 5000 years ago.
It has long been known for its health benefits, as in the 8th century Charlemagne is said to have passed laws requiring his subjects to consume it because of its health benefits.
The following are the three main constituents of flax seeds: 1.
Fiber.
It contains both insoluble and soluble fiber.
Insoluble fiber passes through the digestive tract, preventing constipation and help clearing out toxins before they have a chance to build up.
When constipation occurs, these toxins build up, adding to the stress put on the liver to remove them.
Soluble fiber, on the other hand, forms a gel when combined with water, thus slowing down the digestive process.
This among other things minimizes insulin resistance.
Both types of fiber are important for the digestive process.
2.
Omega-3 fatty acids.
We are all probably aware of the omega-3s in salmon and other products that are highly beneficial, but the ALA omega-3 in flax seeds and other foods such as walnuts have an important function.
They help to decrease the inflammatory reactions in humans, and this would include the liver.
Since liver inflammation can damage liver cells, high doses of flax seeds could help protect the liver from cellular injury.
3.
Flax's lignans.
These are fiber-like compounds that have strong antioxidant properties.
Why are lignans important to us? They represent one of the four major classes of chemical compounds known as phytoestrogens.
These are plant-based compounds that play a vital role in human health, particularly for our discussion here lowering blood levels of two liver enzymes that cause inflammation and cell damage to the liver.
Flax seeds have by far the most among all foods commonly consumed.
Next are sesame seeds, containing about one-seventh the total lignans of flax seeds.
For a healthier liver we should be looking to add flax seeds to our diet.
Some factors to think about concerning flax seeds are: 1.
Storage.
When you store ground flax, keep it in an airtight container to maintain its potency.
It can be kept in the freezer to maintain maximum shelf life.
2.
Grind it.
Whole flax seeds maintain their potency longer but if you consume them whole they may pass through your system undigested.
Therefore, either purchase them in a ground, or milled state or grind them yourself just before using.
3.
How to serve it.
Add it to a variety of foods and drinks, such as cereal, soups, baked goods, smoothies and cooked vegetables.
It gives a subtle, nutty flavor, and will do wonders for your liver health.
People at risk for fatty liver as well as many chronic liver diseases have been helped by this natural food.
It is capable of reducing liver inflammation, reducing blood sugar levels, fighting obesity and easing constipation, as well as improving cholesterol amounts.
We will discuss its main properties, which are fiber, lignans and omega-3s.
Flax seed has been round for centuries, with evidence of it being cultivated in Babylon 5000 years ago.
It has long been known for its health benefits, as in the 8th century Charlemagne is said to have passed laws requiring his subjects to consume it because of its health benefits.
The following are the three main constituents of flax seeds: 1.
Fiber.
It contains both insoluble and soluble fiber.
Insoluble fiber passes through the digestive tract, preventing constipation and help clearing out toxins before they have a chance to build up.
When constipation occurs, these toxins build up, adding to the stress put on the liver to remove them.
Soluble fiber, on the other hand, forms a gel when combined with water, thus slowing down the digestive process.
This among other things minimizes insulin resistance.
Both types of fiber are important for the digestive process.
2.
Omega-3 fatty acids.
We are all probably aware of the omega-3s in salmon and other products that are highly beneficial, but the ALA omega-3 in flax seeds and other foods such as walnuts have an important function.
They help to decrease the inflammatory reactions in humans, and this would include the liver.
Since liver inflammation can damage liver cells, high doses of flax seeds could help protect the liver from cellular injury.
3.
Flax's lignans.
These are fiber-like compounds that have strong antioxidant properties.
Why are lignans important to us? They represent one of the four major classes of chemical compounds known as phytoestrogens.
These are plant-based compounds that play a vital role in human health, particularly for our discussion here lowering blood levels of two liver enzymes that cause inflammation and cell damage to the liver.
Flax seeds have by far the most among all foods commonly consumed.
Next are sesame seeds, containing about one-seventh the total lignans of flax seeds.
For a healthier liver we should be looking to add flax seeds to our diet.
Some factors to think about concerning flax seeds are: 1.
Storage.
When you store ground flax, keep it in an airtight container to maintain its potency.
It can be kept in the freezer to maintain maximum shelf life.
2.
Grind it.
Whole flax seeds maintain their potency longer but if you consume them whole they may pass through your system undigested.
Therefore, either purchase them in a ground, or milled state or grind them yourself just before using.
3.
How to serve it.
Add it to a variety of foods and drinks, such as cereal, soups, baked goods, smoothies and cooked vegetables.
It gives a subtle, nutty flavor, and will do wonders for your liver health.
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