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Flaxseed

In season all year

Food Description:

The flax plant, an ancient crop, yields the fibre from which linen is woven, as well as seeds and oil. The oil, also called linseed oil, has many industrial uses - it is an important ingredient in paints, varnishes, and linoleum, and is used to oil cricket bats. Flaxseed oil is the oil extracted from the seeds. Both the oil and seeds have a pleasant, nutty taste.

General Information:

Category: Seed
To Buy: Buy both the seeds and oil from a health food store. Buy whole seeds and grind them yourself. Always check the expiry date of the packaging.
To Store: Store in the fridge and use within the recommended expiry date.
Tips and Tricks: Never heat flaxseed oil as it is highly volatile. Serve as a salad oil or drizzled over cereal and yoghurt in the morning.

Nutrition (1 Tablespoon):

Weight (grams): 10.5
Carbohydrates, g: 3.2
Protein (g): 2.0
Saturated Fat, g : 0.4
Vitamin B6: Important in development and maintenance of nervous system. Also plays a role in prevention of inflammatory and skin diseases, hormone production and the metabolism of protein, fat and carbohydrates.
Magnesium: Involved in energy production and proper functioning of muscles and nerves, magnesium also promotes the absorption of other minerals and promotes blood vessel dilation and lowers the risk of blood clots.
Salicylates: Naturally occurring plant chemicals found in several fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices, jams, honey, yeast extracts, tea and coffee, juices, beer and wines. Also present in flavourings, perfumes, scented toiletries and some medications. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. No information available
Energy (kJ): 245
Fibre, g:
Fat (g): 4.6
Omega 3's (g): Polyunsaturated fatty acids essential in the diet as the body can't produce naturally. Lowers levels of harmful LDL cholesterol and blood pressure, therefore protects against heart disease. Involved in production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.
Folic Acid: Important during pregnancy as this vitamin is involved in the duplication of chromosomes, preventing birth defects. Lowers the risk of heart disease and is necessary for proper brain and gut function.
Amines: Amines come the breakdown or fermentation of proteins. High amounts are found in cheese, chocolate, wine, beer and yeast extracts. Smaller amounts are present in some fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, avocados, bananas. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. No information available
Glutamates: Glutamate is found naturally in many foods, as part of protein. It enhances the flavour of food, which is why foods rich in natural glutamates such as tomatoes, mushrooms and cheeses are commonly used in meals. Pure monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as an additive to artificially flavour many processed foods, and should be avoided, especially in sensitive individuals as it can cause serious adverse reactions. n/a

Cooking:

Cooking Tips:

Benefits the Following Health Conditions:*

Aches & Pains
Alzheimers Disease
Arthritis
Constipation
Heart Disease
Inflammation
Menstrual Problems
Skin Conditions
 Acne
Asthma
Atherosclerosis
Eczema
High Blood Cholesterol
Menopause
Osteoporosis

* This information is sourced by a qualified naturopath. It is non prescriptive and not intended as a cure for the condition. Recommended intake is not provided. It is no substitute for the advice and treatment of a professional practitioner.



Disclaimer:
The Food Coach provides all content as is, without warranty. The Food Coach is not responsible for errors or omissions, or consequences of improper preparation, user allergies, or any other consequence of food preparation or consumption.

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