Flaxseeds have been consumed for at least 6,000 years, making them one of the world’s first cultivated superfoods. What does flaxseed do for you that makes it one of the most popular “superfoods”? Flaxseeds contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids (although not the same type that fish, such as salmon, do) along with antioxidant substances called lignans that help promote hormonal balance in addition to several other benefits of flaxseed.

Benefits of flaxseed include helping improve digestion, giving you clearer skin, lowering cholesterol, reducing sugar cravings, balancing hormones and even helping fight cancer — and that’s just the beginning!

What Is Flaxseed?

Flaxseeds, sometimes called linseeds, are small, brown, tan or golden-colored seeds. They are a great source of dietary fiber; minerals like manganese, thiamine and magnesium; and plant-based protein. Flax is one of the richest sources of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, called alpha-linolenic acid (or ALA), in the world. Another unique fact about flaxseeds is that they are the No. 1 source of lignans in the human diets; flaxseeds contain about seven times as many lignans as the closest runner-up, sesame seeds.

Flaxseeds can be eaten as whole/unground seeds but are even more beneficial when sprouted and ground into flaxseed meal. Grinding flax helps you absorb both types of fiber it contains, along you to take advantage of even more of the benefits of flaxseed. Additionally, flaxseeds are used to make flax seed oil, which is easily digested and a concentrated source of healthy fats. Below you’ll find more about how to sprout and grind your own flaxseed, plus ideas for using all types of flax in recipes.

Top 10 Benefits of Flax seed

1. High in Fiber but Low in Carbs
2. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
3. Helps Make Skin and Hair Hairy
4. Helps Lower Cholesterol
5. Gluten-Free
6. High in Antioxidants (Lignans)
7. Supports Digestive Health
8. May Help Prevent Cancer
9. May Help with Weight Loss
10. Helps Decrease Menopausal and Hormonal Imbalance Symptoms