Heart-Healthy Flax
http://www.lifeclinic.com/focus/blood/articleView.asp?MessageID=1874
You probably think of flax as the source of the fibers that linen is
made from. But did you know that the seeds and oil of the flax plant
have heart-healthy properties? Flaxseed oil is a highly unsaturated oil.
Both the oil and the seeds are the best food sources of an essential
fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid. Our body needs this substance
for blood pressure regulation, among other functions. It's one of the
omega-3 fatty acids, like those in fish oil, which have been linked to
reduced blood clotting and lower risk for heart attacks.
Flaxseeds have a pleasant, nutty flavor and taste good sprinkled on
salads, cooked vegetables, or cereals. Grind the seeds or chew them very
well; whole seeds just pass through the body. Grinding the seeds just
before using them preserves flavor and nutrition. Keep them
refrigerated. There is no nutritional difference between brown and
yellow flaxseeds. Here are some ways to add flax to your diet:
Combine flaxseed flour with wheat flour for breads, quickbreads and
pancakes.
You can find ready-made flaxseed breads, muffins, cereals
and breakfast bars in many stores.
Flaxseed oil cannot be used for
frying or saut¨¦ing.
Keep flaxseed oil refrigerated, and pay
attention to the expiration date. It spoils quickly.
Pregnant or
breast-feeding women should not eat a lot of flax, and a few people may
have allergic reactions to flaxseeds.