Heart Health
Flaxseed for your Heart
Omega-3 for a healthy heart hands down, one of the most effective ways to promote better overall health is by adding heart healthy omega-3-rich flaxseed to your daily routine.
The benefits of flaxseed are nothing short of extraordinary. Flaxseeds are a rich source of the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid.
Besides having an extremely high omega-3 content, flaxseed is also rich in dietary fiber and lignans. The soluble fiber aids in reducing carbohydrate absorption, stabilizing blood sugar levels, inhibiting cholesterol absorption, and lowering blood cholesterol levels.
Flaxseed studies suggests that flaxseed helps to lower high blood pressure, and taken daily, it can reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL – bad) cholesterol levels, while raising high-density lipoprotein (HDL – good) cholesterol.
Studies suggest that hi-lignan flaxseed reduces the extent of atherosclerosis (a disease in which plaque builds up inside arteries). Over time, atherosclerosis can lead to serious problems, including heart attack, stroke, or even death.
The lignan complex found in flaxseeds may, therefore, be beneficial in preventing atherosclerosis, and reducing risk factors for coronary artery disease and stroke.
When is the best time to take flaxseed for heart health?
If you are looking for a way to lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, or improve digestion, it is generally advisable to take them before breakfast. If you are looking for weight loss, it is recommended to take them in the morning.
Is flaxseed or flaxseed oil better?
Because it is lower in calories but higher in fiber, ground flaxseed has a nutritional advantage over flaxseed oil. Ground flaxseed has 75 calories per 2-tablespoon serving, whereas flaxseed oil has 240 calories per 2-tablespoon serving.