Flax seeds (also called linseeds) are a rich source of micronutrients, dietary fiber, manganese, vitamin B1, and the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid, also known as ALA or omega-3. As a source of healthy fat, antioxidants, and fiber, flaxseed can also help lower the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
There are two main types of flax seed: golden flaxseed and brown flaxseed; their nutritional profiles are very similar and both contain the same number of short-chain omega-3 fatty acids. To reap the most benefits from flax seeds, Flaxseed should be bought in ground form or ground before consumption as whole flax seeds can sometimes pass through the digestive tract undigested.
Because it has just a very subtle nutty flavor, I can slyly add ground flaxseed (also known as flaxseed meal) to oatmeal, smoothies, cereal, soups, casseroles, salads, yogurt, pancakes, and baked goods.
I’ll even “bread” chicken and salmon with it and sometimes replace eggs in a recipe with flax eggs. All I do is stir together 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal and 2.5 tablespoons of water, and I have an excellent vegan egg substitute.
If you’re hesitant about incorporating flaxseed into your meals, give some of these delicious recipes a try. Your family will never know they are eating something that is actually good for them!
Coconut & Honey No-Bake Energy Bites
