Being a vegetarian doesn't just mean no meat. There are nutrients that you need to make extra effort to consume due to a restricted diet. Today I am going to tell you about flax seeds and how they can keep your diet balanced without the meat and fish.
Be sure to buy ground flax seed so your body will soak up as much of the nutrients as possible! Flax seed oil is also an option but it does not include nearly as much fiber or phytochemicals as the ground option does and whole flax can just pass through your intestine which means you won't be able to get all the potential health benefits.
Flax seed is high in B Vitamins: B Vitamins support healthy skin, hair, muscle tone, higher metabolism, and enhance the function of both your immune system and your nervous system.
Flax seed is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s help fight inflammation in your body. This means that you will be less likely to suffer from heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and even some cancers.
Flax seed is high in Fiber: Flaxseed contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. All this fiber means that your body can help lower cholesterol levels. Fiber aids in proper digestion and contributes to the stabilization in your blood sugar levels.
Flax seed is loaded with Phytochemicals: Phytomchemicals have effects like antioxidants. They boost your immune system, act as anti-inflammatory agents, boost cellular repair and more.
Now, how to add it to your diet --> You can put it in just about any food! Whether it is oatmeal, cereal, or orange juice, just mix in a small amount and you'll begin to reap the benefits. Now there is no need to overload. Let your body adjust to the additional fiber in your diet slowly so as to avoid any discomfort as well.
A balanced and healthy diet is the first and most important step to a healthy lifestyle. So go try to add some more flax to your diet and happy reading!
Source: About.com
Be sure to buy ground flax seed so your body will soak up as much of the nutrients as possible! Flax seed oil is also an option but it does not include nearly as much fiber or phytochemicals as the ground option does and whole flax can just pass through your intestine which means you won't be able to get all the potential health benefits.
Flax seed is high in B Vitamins: B Vitamins support healthy skin, hair, muscle tone, higher metabolism, and enhance the function of both your immune system and your nervous system.
Flax seed is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s help fight inflammation in your body. This means that you will be less likely to suffer from heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and even some cancers.
Flax seed is high in Fiber: Flaxseed contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. All this fiber means that your body can help lower cholesterol levels. Fiber aids in proper digestion and contributes to the stabilization in your blood sugar levels.
Flax seed is loaded with Phytochemicals: Phytomchemicals have effects like antioxidants. They boost your immune system, act as anti-inflammatory agents, boost cellular repair and more.
Now, how to add it to your diet --> You can put it in just about any food! Whether it is oatmeal, cereal, or orange juice, just mix in a small amount and you'll begin to reap the benefits. Now there is no need to overload. Let your body adjust to the additional fiber in your diet slowly so as to avoid any discomfort as well.
A balanced and healthy diet is the first and most important step to a healthy lifestyle. So go try to add some more flax to your diet and happy reading!
Source: About.com
How much should you add on a daily basis?
ReplyDeleteHey Jessica! So you should start with 1 tablespoon of ground flax seed for the first 3-4 days to allow your body to adjust comfortably. After that 2 tablespoons daily should be the goal.
ReplyDelete