In ancient Greece, Hippocrates wrote about using flaxseeds to treat patients. Flaxseeds are one of the richest plant sources of essential omega-3 fatty acids. They have about 100 times more lignan precursors than other foods. Lignan precursors activate lignan production by the healthy bacteria in your gut. Lignans are associated with significantly reduced breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women, because they have phytoestrogens that reduce the effects of the body’s own estrogen, which is great for women who are estrogen dominant. Flaxseeds may help with constipation, lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, balance blood sugar, fight cancer, support weight loss, and improve skin health. Lastly, high levels of lignans have been found in the prostate fluids of men in populations with low prostate cancer rates; and in a petri-dish study, lignans slowed the growth of prostate cancer cells.
We add ground flaxseeds to our oatmeal, smoothies, and yogurt; and sprinkle them over berries, mixed cut fruit, and vegetables. Try it!
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