Flax seed or Linseed (Alsi in Hindi) is full of health enhancing qualities and nutrients, but not many people are aware of these. For vegetarians, this is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Flax seeds contain nearly 50% Omega-3 Fatty Acid, in the form of Alpha Linoleic Acid. This is not formed in our body and has to be taken only by way of food. You can observe its benefits, once you start consuming it regularly. Besides Omega-3, flax seeds have Fiber, Protein, Vitamin B Complex, Manganese, Magnesium, Potassium, Phosphorus and Selenium along with Phytoestrogen. If you want to keep yourself away from ailments, then you must include at least 2 tablespoons of flax seeds in your diet. Let us learn about the benefits of flax seeds:

Helps in Weight Loss

The Lignin and Omega-3, prevents fat deposit and keeps the body fit. If you are engaged in such a job, in that you are unable to take time out, for exercise, then you must include consumption of flax seeds in your routine. This will be a big help in controlling your weight. An hour before the meals, eat 1 or 1 ½ teaspoon flax seeds; after chewing them well, take a glass of water. After half an hour take another glass of water. This will result in a feeling of fullness, resultant you eat less.

Helps in Improving Digestion

If you remain constipated and have poor digestion, then above referred method of consuming flaxseeds can be a great help in improving digestion. Do not forget to consume a lot of water.

Effective in Asthma

Flaxseeds are effective in case of Asthma. If you are suffering from Asthma, then grind flaxseeds, and mix the powder in water. Allow it to sit for 10 hours. Take this water three times a day regularly, and you will have relief in asthma. This water will also reduce coughing.

Hormone Management in Women

Due to the presence of phytoestrogen, this is especially useful for women. This is extremely useful and beneficial during the hormonal changes happening on account of menopause, and other related problems, like hot flashes, restlessness, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, backache, dry vagina and joint pain.

Manage PCOS Symptoms

Also, if you have PCOS problem and have irregular periods, then also its regular consumption will help you in getting rid of this problem.

Makes the Skin and Hair Healthy, Beautiful and Shiny

If you want to have healthy, smooth, shiny skin and hair, then add 1-2 teaspoon flaxseeds in your routine diet. Its antioxidant qualities promote collagen production and build-up of new cells in the skin, due to which age related changes are less visible on the skin.

Reduce High Level of Cholesterol

Fiber in flaxseeds prevent absorption of fat and cholesterol in the body and that is how, it helps in reduction of cholesterol level. Also, flaxseeds are helpful in controlling high blood pressure.

Effective on Diabetes

In flaxseeds, there is lot of Lignin, which is another form of cellulose. If you have diabetes, then include 25 grams of flaxseeds, in any form, in your diet. If you want, you can distribute it in portions and then use it during the day, in any manner that you desire.

Helps to Prevent Cancer

Due to presence of pollutants and toxins in the body, there is always a danger of development of cancer. Here also, Lignin eliminates the toxins, impurities, cholesterol etc. after mixing it with faeces and helps in protecting you from cancer. Its regular consumption can prevent Prostate Cancer, Colon Cancer and Breast Cancer.

Relief in Joint Pain 

Flaxseeds are effective in any type of joint problems. It is a blood thinner and therefore ensures proper blood flow into legs and that is how the pain is taken care of. For joint pain, mix flaxseeds powder with mustard oil, warm it and then after it has cooled down, apply on the joints, you will feel relief.

Some other benefit of flaxseeds, in brief:

*Fiber in flaxseeds help in regular bowel movement.
*Provides energy and pep to the body.
*Flaxseed oil brings a glow to the face.
*Flaxseed oil provides immediate relief in case of burns.
*Consumption of flaxseeds provide relief in period related problems.
*Flaxseeds provide relief from problems created by phlegm.

Caution!!!

In case you are already taking cholesterol lowering, blood-sugar lowering or blood-thinning medications, then before using flax seeds, you must consult your physician. Always consume in moderation. Excess also can be harmful.  Also if you are suffering from piles, you should not use it. After taking flaxseeds you must drink lots and lots of water. Flaxseeds have lot of fiber, and in the eventuality of less water in the stomach, it can cause problems like acidity, gas etc.