FoodFlaxseed oil: The affordable superfood transforming health

Flaxseed oil: The affordable superfood transforming health

Linseed oil should also be part of your diet.
Linseed oil should also be part of your diet.
Images source: © Canva | HeikeRau

12 August 2024 16:48

It is easily accessible and relatively inexpensive, and its properties surpass many other superfoods. Just one, maybe two teaspoons in the morning, and your stomach will thank you.

Flaxseed oil is obtained by cold-pressing linseed. This process preserves all the valuable nutrients. The flaxseeds, the raw material, are a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids essential for the proper functioning of the body. This, however, is just the beginning of the list of valuable properties of flaxseed oil.

What are the benefits of drinking flaxseed oil?

Flaxseed oil boosts the immune system, protects against cardiovascular diseases, and prevents dry skin. Its composition includes essential unsaturated fatty acids (EUFAs), which are crucial for the proper functioning of the body, such as alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), linoleic acid (omega-6), and oleic acid (omega-9). In the human body, alpha-linolenic acid is converted into DHA acid, which is particularly important for the health of the nervous system.

Linseeds are a source of water-soluble fibre, so they are often used to treat various gastrointestinal diseases. Flaxseed oil also contains vitamin E, which has antioxidant and anti-ageing properties, and vitamin A, which belongs to the carotenoid group. Both vitamins A and E are potent antioxidants that protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals and premature ageing.

Flaxseed oil and weight loss

Flaxseed oil is recommended for overweight people. Due to the content of omega-3 acids, daily consumption of flaxseed oil can help regulate metabolism and accelerate the burning of body fat. Despite its high caloric content, flaxseed oil should not be omitted in a reducing diet, as it reduces cravings for sweets, lowers the level of "bad" cholesterol, and can protect against high blood pressure or the development of atherosclerotic plaque.

It is worth adding that flaxseed oil supports liver function, making this organ more efficient in getting rid of fat. Furthermore, regular consumption of flaxseed oil can help remove deposits in the intestines, providing a feeling of lightness.

Linseed oil is a source of valuable healthy fats.
Linseed oil is a source of valuable healthy fats.© Canva | Olga Kriger

When is the best time to drink flaxseed oil: morning or evening?

Flaxseed oil is best consumed in the morning on an empty stomach because the stomach can absorb the most beneficial ingredients. You can drink flaxseed oil daily, but it should be done regularly, and it will only be effective if used consistently and over a long period. Adults should consume 30 to 60 millilitres per day for preventative purposes, increasing the dose to 90 to 120 millilitres for therapeutic use.

Flaxseed oil has a comprehensive application. It can be used in salads, sandwiches, cottage cheese and cottage cheese paste, and cooked vegetables. However, it is essential to remember that flaxseed oil should not be used for frying because, during high-temperature processing, polyunsaturated fatty acids break down, and flaxseed oil loses all its health properties.

When choosing flaxseed oil, it is worth paying attention to a few things. Due to its high omega-3 content, flaxseed oil is very perishable. Therefore, it is best to choose oil pressed no longer than 3 months before sale. Flaxseed oil should be sold in a dark bottle and stored in refrigeration conditions. Choosing cold-pressed, unrefined oil from seeds with a quality certificate is best.

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