Golden Flax Seeds, NOW Foods - Whole Bulk - 16 oz.

Flax seeds are thought to have originated in the ancient Middle East during biblical times. They are an important source of polyunsatured fatty acids, including Omega-3, plus Magnesium, Zinc and dietary fiber. Flax oil from flax seeds is the richest known source of linolenic acid. It contains protein, mucilage, phytosterols and lignans, which are naturally included at 100 times the level of the next best source, wheat bran.

Constipation: Flaxseed is a bulk-forming laxative. It has a high fiber and mucilage content that expands when it comes in contact with water. As the volume in the bowel increases, a reflex muscular contraction occurs, stimulating a bowel movement. This mild laxative is best suited for long-term use in people with constipation.

High cholesterol: sources of soluble fiber, has been reported to lower cholesterol. A recent trial found that partially defatted flaxseed containing 20 grams of fiber per day significantly lowered LDL cholesterol, suggesting that at least one of the cholesterol-lowering components in flaxseed is likely to be the fiber in this product (as opposed to the oil removed from it). In a preliminary trial, young women who had normal cholesterol levels took 50g (approximately 1–3/4 oz.) of raw flaxseed per day for a month, either as flour or baked into bread, which resulted in a 9% decrease in total cholesterol and an 18% decrease in LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.

Doctors and researchers are interested in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)–the special omega-3 fatty acid found in large amounts in flaxseeds and flaxseed oil. ALA is a precursor to EPA, a fatty acid (obtained in nature from fish oil) that is believed to protect against heart disease. To a limited extent, ALA converts to EPA in the body. However, unlike EPA, ALA does not lower triglyceride levels (a risk factor for heart disease). Preliminary research on the effects of ALA from flaxseed has produced conflicting results. For example, ALA has improved parameters of blood vessel health that should protect people from heart disease, yet ALA may cause damage to LDL cholesterol. Such damage is believed to be a precursor to heart disease.

Lupus: Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such flaxseed, may decrease lupus-induced inflammation. In one trial, nine people with kidney damage due to SLE were fed increasing amounts of flaxseed for a total of 12 weeks. After examining the results, researchers concluded that 30 grams per day was the optimal intake for improving kidney function, decreasing inflammation, and reducing development of atherosclerosis.
Flaxseeds also contain antioxidants, potentially helpful to those with lupus.

Flaxseeds combined with water in a blender become quite viscous and can be used to replace eggs in many recipes. Flax oil is used as a salad oil or can be drizzled over cooked foods.
Flax oil is unstable at high temperatures and should not be used as a cooking oil. Although the flax plant is grown to produce a variety of products from linen, to paper, to linseed oil, it also produces flaxseed oil.

Eyebag Pillows: This Flaxseed is great for use in making your own scented eyebag pillows.

Product Information:

Suggested Dosage or Use: Grind your own seeds on a daily basis for the freshest and healthiest seed oil. Add to cereals, salads and blender drinks. Take with plenty of water. Flaxseeds go rancid quickly and should therefore be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will keep for one to two months.

Flaxseeds, 1 Tbsp
Calories: 59
Protein: 2.3g
Carbohydrate: 4.1g
Total Fat: 4.1g
Fiber: 3.3g
*Good source of: Magnesium (43.4mg)

Ingredients: 100% Organic Golden Flax Seeds (Linum Usitatissimum)

Warning: Flax seeds have a bulk forming laxative effect. Not to be consumed by individuals with irritable bowel syndrome.

Band: Now Foods
Flax Seeds (Golden), Whole Bulk, - 1 lb.