Weight Loss 1-on-1: Flaxseeds (Alsi)

#AllAboutHealth  #WeightLoss

Not many people are aware but Flaxseed (aka Alsi in hindi) is a very powerful food product. It  not only helps reduce weight but also has many other (and very useful) benefits.

Lets see what Flaxseed are: Flaxseed (also called linseeds) are a rich source of micro nutrients, dietary fibre, manganese, vitamin B1, and the essential fatty acid omega-3. (source of definition: medicalnewstoday). 

The seeds come from flax, one of the oldest fibre crops in the world - known to have been cultivated in ancient Egypt and China. Flaxseed is also referred to as most powerful food product in many journals. 

There are a lot of benefits of consuming flaxseed on regular basis. To list down a few:

1. Helps with digestion and weight loss - Weight is a demon that we all want to avoid but due to many factors it always manages to catch up (for most of us). Flaxseed is one of the potent solution that helps reduce weight as it is rich in fibre and essential nutrients. After witnessing it personally, I strongly suggest it to people who wish to lose some kilos. 
2. Cholesterol - a lot of people suffer from the problem of cholesterol. Nobody needs to state how high cholesterol can have bad effect on overall health. Many studies have shown (and I have witnessed in my own family) that combination of flaxseed and regular exercise not just keeps cholesterol in control but also reduces it for people who are suffering with higher levels
3. Helps avoid cancer - Given its high in Omega 3 it helps prevent Prostate, Colon and Breast cancer
4. Improves immune system - with properties listed above (and many more) flaxseed consumption also aids in immune system. It reduces the inflammation in the body and prevents body from various allergies and infections
5. Many other benefits - there are many other benefits of flaxseed like improve liver health, cardiovascular health, skin glow, strong joints, lowering blood pressure, diabetes etc. This article is just a beginning of how good flaxseed consumption is, you can read up more on internet to find additional benefits

 How to take flaxseed?

Whole seed vs. Grind Powder

It is crucial to know that flaxseed if consumed whole will not be absorbed in your body, instead will pass through your digestive system. Flaxseed should be roasted and grinded first before they are consumed. If you are not sure of how much to roast, I would suggest buy yourself a packet which is already roasted and grind

There are 2 options to take flaxseed, first -  you can sprinkle them on your food, salad etc. and consume. You should do it only if you like its taste. Or second - for people like me, who hate the taste and smell of flaxseed, take a spoonful of its powder, eat it and drink water. do not chew else it will be a nightmare to take it out of  your teeth.  

When to take flaxseed?

 Preferred time to take is twice a day, before meals (breakfast and dinner) to get maximum out of it.

Where to buy?

Flaxseed is available in almost all local grocer shops in India. They are also available online. For people outside India, you can easily get it on your online shops

I hope you liked the article and you will include flaxseed in your diet everyday from now on... If you have any questions you can post them in comments below :)

Till then

Take Care