Flaxseed oil is an essential oil, which is obtained from flax (Linum usitatissimum) seeds. Flax seeds are also known as linseed and Alsi (in India), that’s why flaxseed oil is also known as linseed oil or Alsi ka tel. It is rich in essential fats like Omega-3, lignans, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and others. These essential fats are the sole reason behind the multiple benefits of flaxseed oil. It is obtained via cold pressing the ripened and dried flax seeds. The cold pressing technique helps in retaining the antioxidants present in the oil. In this article we will share some of the most important benefits of flaxseed oil.
Benefits Of Flaxseed Oil
1. Reduces cancer risk
One of the benefits of flaxseed oil is that it helps in fighting cancer or slowing it down. It contains linoorbitides compounds which are known to fight cancer cells. Linoorbitides also slows down the rate of multiplication or growth of a tumor. The oil is full of lignans which have proved beneficial in breast and lung cancer cases.
2. Reduces Cholesterol
Flaxseed oil is known to reduce the LDL which is also known as bad cholesterol. Along with that, it helps in increasing HDL which is the good cholesterol. So, decreasing LDLs and increasing HDLs helps in maintaining good heart health also, keeps blood pressure in control. Flaxseed oil is also a magnificent anti-inflammatory oil thus lowering the risk of cardiac inflammatory diseases.
3. Improves gut health
Flaxseed oil helps in an effective increase in the peristalsis of the GIT (Gastrointestinal Tract). This improves bowel movements on a regular basis. It is well known for its laxative properties that are widely used in treating constipation. Not only that it is also proven to be effective in diarrhea too.
4. Skin Health
Flaxseed oil is rich in ALA (Alpha-Lipoic Acid) which is a powerful antioxidant and used tremendously in the cosmetic industry as an anti-aging promoter or compound. Low levels of ALA can lead to dryness, worn out looking skin. It also helps in skin regeneration. It also reduces skin redness or rashes due to inflammation.
5. Brain Health
Flaxseed oil and other products having flaxseed contain BDNF (Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor). BDNF’s main function is to protect nerve cells. Flaxseed oil has given positive feedback in many cases of bipolar diseases. As it is rich in antioxidants that helps in combating against oxidative stress, which causes destruction to nerve cells.
6. Weight loss and management
Consumption of flaxseed oil and seeds too help in weight loss as it helps in production of Leptin. Leptin is a kind of protein which is produced by fat tissue of the body. Function of leptin is to stop overeating; that means it will tell your brain when to stop eating. In obese people leptin production is decreased therefore such people tend to overeat and put on weight. But with flaxseed oil leptin levels are raised thus helping in controlling weight by decreasing overeating.
7. Promotes kidney health
One of the most interesting benefits of flaxseed oil and flaxseed powder is that it helps in maintaining healthy kidneys. It helps in reducing the risk of polycystic kidney damage. It is also very beneficial in preventing inflammatory disease of kidneys both in males and females. This is done with the help of a compound named Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG).
8. Bone Health
We all know that flaxseed oil is rich in ALA which is one of the essential compounds for health and prevents bones from getting fragile and breakable. It helps in osteoporosis.
Also Read – List Of Top Benefits Of Argan Oil
Let’s learn some interesting facts about flaxseed and flaxseed oil. They are as follows:
- People often mistake flax seeds and flaxseed oil as the same product. No they are not because flaxseed oil is 100% fat whereas flax seeds are rich in fiber. Therefore, their benefits are also slightly different from each other.
- Flax seeds are whole food therefore contain more nutrients as compared to flaxseed oil. Like seeds are rich in fiber, phytonutrients, minerals and vitamins.
- Flaxseed oil once opened needs to be refrigerated whereas flax seeds can be easily stored in cool and dry places.
- Flax seeds are rich in protein, iron, calcium, manganese, thiamin, phosphorus, etc. Whereas flaxseed oil is one of the richest sources of Omega-3 and ALA.
- Flaxseed oil is used in the production of paints, printing inks, varnish, etc.
So like any other essential oil, flaxseed oil or linseed oil helps in maintaining our health as a nutritional and dietary supplement . Regular addition in our day to day life helps in improving various elements like skin, bone, heart, kidneys, etc. You can simply add flaxseed oil as a salad dressing, or in baking breads, dips , sauces, or can be consumed directly in small quantities.
Disclaimer :
The information on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or using any dietary supplements or herbal remedies. Individual results may vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. Please note that the information on this blog has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or any other regulatory body. This blog does not aim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition.