Among the claims made for flax are that it may reduce cancer risk, improve cholesterol, lower blood pressure, help control blood sugar, and aid in weight control.

Flax is a food and fiber crop cultivated in cooler regions of the world. Textiles made from flax are known in the Western countries as linen. Its oil is known as linseed oil. Flaxseed is rich in dietary fiber and omega-3 fats and it contains high-quality protein. The health benefits were observed with just 1 tablespoon (10 grams) of ground flax seeds per day. However, it’s recommended to keep serving sizes to less than 5 tablespoons (50 grams) of flax seeds per day. Ground flax seeds are easier to digest. Whole flax seeds can be stored longer than powder; grind them in a coffee grinder as needed. Store ground flax seeds in an airtight container.

Add flaxseed to water and drink it as part of your daily fluid intake; use flaxseed oil as a dressing on salad; sprinkle ground flax seeds over your hot or cold breakfast cereal; add them into cookie, muffin, bread or other batters; mix them into smoothies.

1 Tbsp ground flaxseed
calories 37
carbohydrates 2 g
calcium 2% DV
fat 3 g
fiber 1.9 g
folate 2% DV
iron 2% DV
magnesium 7% DV
omega 3 fatty acids 1,597 mg
phosphorous 4% DV
potassium 2% DV
protein 1.3 g
vitamin B1 8% DV
vitamin B6 2% DV