Health benefits of Flaxseed or Linseed? Why should you consume it everyday?

Pile of brown flax seeds scattered on a wooden surface
Published date: 04-March-2025

Flaxseed/Linseed Omega3 for Heart Health

Flax seeds are a fantastic plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. They help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.These tiny seeds are also packed with fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. They help keep your bowel movements regular, preventing constipation, and support gut health by encouraging the growth of good bacteria in your intestines.

Flaxseed/Linseed for Constipation

The high fiber content keeps you full for longer, reducing overeating. Helps control cravings and supports healthy weight management.Flaxseeds are rich in soluble fiber, which forms a gel-like substance in the stomach.This slows digestion and keeps you full for longer, reducing unnecessary snacking.Flaxseeds contain omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats, which help in controlling hunger hormones.ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid) in flaxseeds helps the body burn fat more efficiently.

Benefits of flax seeds for women

There are multiple benefits of flax seeds benefits for female. Below are some of the Prominent benefits of flax seed benefits for women

  • Hormonal Balance Flax seeds are rich in lignans, which are phytoestrogens (plant-based estrogens). These can help balance estrogen levels, making them beneficial for women with hormonal imbalances, PCOS, or during menopause
  • Supports Menstrual Health Flax seeds may help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms of PMS such as cramps and mood swings.
  • Improves Skin & Hair The high omega-3 fatty acid content in flax seeds helps promote glowing skin and stronger hair, while reducing dryness and inflammation.
  • Heart Health Rich in ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), flax seeds help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and support cardiovascular health — something that becomes increasingly important post-menopause.
  • Supports Weight Management Their fiber content helps you feel full longer, curbing unnecessary cravings — helpful if you’re aiming for weight control or healthy digestion.
  • Bone Health Flax seeds contain magnesium and calcium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones, especially after age 30 when bone density can begin to decline.
  • Reduces Risk of Breast Cancer Thanks to their antioxidant and hormone-balancing effects, some studies suggest flax seeds may help reduce the risk of hormone-related cancers, like breast cancer.

Regulates Blood Sugar Good for Diabetes Management

Flax seeds help stabilize blood sugar levels by reducing insulin resistance. The fiber in flax seeds slows down sugar absorption, preventing spikes in blood glucose.Due to its fiber content This slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, preventing rapid blood sugar spikes

Reduces Inflammation & Boosts Immunity

Contains lignans & omega-3s, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Helps in managing arthritis, asthma, and other inflammatory conditions. Flaxseeds are one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3s (ALA - Alpha-Linolenic Acid).Omega-3s reduce inflammatory markers in the body, helping manage conditions like arthritis, asthma, and heart disease. 70% of the immune system is in the gut, and flaxseeds help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

Flax Seed Oil/Linseed Oil

Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), with 7g per tablespoon, along with healthy fats and a small amount of Vitamin E. It contains no carbohydrates, protein, or fiber, making it a great addition to support heart health and reduce inflammation, but it should not be heated to preserve its nutritional value.

ALA Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) in Flaxseed:

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is the primary omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseeds. One tablespoon (about 14g) of whole flaxseeds contains roughly 3g of ALA, while flaxseed oil contains about 7g of ALA per tablespoon (14g). ALA supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and is essential for brain function, as it's a plant-based omega-3 that the body partially converts to EPA and DHAYou must be wondering, How many grams of flax seed in 1 tablespoon so let me tell you it contains 14grams in a tablespoon.Let's see the nutritional value in flax seed below

28 grams ~ 2 tablespoon of Flaxseed/Linseed Nutrition value for adults

NutrientAmountDailyValue
Calories75 kcal4%
Protein2600 mg5%
Total Fat6000 mg8%
Omega-3 (ALA)3300 mg206%
Omega-6 (LA)900 mg5–10%
Carbohydrates4000 mg1%
Dietary Fiber3800 mg14%
Sugars200 mg<1%
Calcium55 mg4%
Iron1000 mg6%
Magnesium70 mg17%
Lignans150 mgN/A

Disclaimer

Although Flaxseed are generally safe and beneficial for health, You must consult a doctor before consuming them in large amounts