Benefits of Flax - Seeds of Wonder

• Rich in omega 3 fatty acids (plant-derived) similar to those found in salmon
• Rich in fiber – a natural laxative – improving digestive health, relieving constipation
• Flaxseed is rich in lignin, an antioxidant
• Cholesterol-lowering benefits (total and LDL)
• Lowers high blood pressure
• Helps the heart by keeping platelets from becoming sticky, thus reducing heart attacks.
• Excellent source of fiber. Lignans in flax seed shows promising results in the prevention of breast cancer. Lignan metabolites can bind to estrogen receptors, thereby inhibiting the onset of estrogen-stimulated breast cancer.
• Positive benefits for colitis - believed to help heal the inner lining of the inflamed intestines.

• Flaxseed can benefit the mucous membranes of the body, such as the bronchial tubes and urinary tract.

GOOD SOURCE OF:

• Magnesium
• Potassium
• High in B vitamins
• Protein
• Beta carotene
• Vitamin E
• Zinc

• When applied as a poultice, flaxseed helps heal skin inflammations and ease joint pain.

Did you know you can even lower your cholesterol by substituting flaxseed in recipes calling for fat, oil or eggs?

• A fat substitute – 3 TB. Flaxseed can be used to replace 1 TB. Of fat or oil

• An egg substitute – 1 TB. Flaxseed + 3 TB water = 1 egg

• Add a spoonful of ground flaxseed to hot or cold cereals.
• Add a spoonful of ground flaxseed to mayo or mustard on sandwiches
• Mix spoonful of ground flaxseed with serving of yogurt
• Bake ground flaxseed into cookies, breads and other baked goods
• Mix a tablespoonful of seeds with juice or water and take at bedtime

• Enjoyed as a tea flaxseed can be used to help 1) remedy colds and coughs 2) as well as urinary tract irritations.

These are delightful crackers very light and crisp and tasty! You can make them up in just minutes.

• 1 cup flaxseed
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp. garlic salt
• ½ tsp. basil or thyme
• ½ tsp. turmeric

Mix all ingredients together. You can use your own favorite seasonings. Let set 10-15 minutes to gel. Spread thin on a large pizza pan greased with olive oil. Bake at 300 degrees 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quick cooking or old fashioned rolled oats
• 1-1/2 cups dry wholewheat pancake mix
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 2 cups milk (nut, rice, soy, etc.)
• 1 egg or egg substitute equivalent
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine dry ingredients. Add milk, egg and vanilla and stir until moistened. Let stand 15 minutes before cooking on griddle.