Flax seeds, positive and negative effects of their consumption

They may be small, but these seeds have a powerful impact on your health.

AgroWeb.org introduces you to the many ways that adding flax seeds to your recipes can bring health benefits, as well as some tips to consider before using them.

Rich in fiber

One tablespoon of flax seeds has almost 3 grams of fiber, which is equal to 11% of the recommended daily value.

According to health experts, you should get an average of 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day.

A low-fiber diet not only affects your weight loss efforts, but can also cause digestive problems and even increase the risk of developing chronic diseases.

Adding seeds to your breakfast is the best way to start incorporating them into your diet.

They are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Specifically, flax seeds are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of essential fatty acid that your body can't produce. The only way to get it is through food, and flax seeds are perfect.

In general, consuming omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which may help prevent the development of chronic diseases.

May improve heart health

These seeds, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and with anti-inflammatory properties, can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

They can also effectively lower blood pressure, which is important for preventing heart attack and stroke.

They can help with digestion.

Flax seeds are widely known as a natural laxative, which can help with the digestive process and constipation.

Plus, consuming flaxseeds has also been shown to positively alter the gut microbiome during digestion by increasing the bacterial flora in your gut.

It also reduces the presence of Proteobacteria and Porphyromonadaceae, which have been linked to alcoholic liver disease.

Flax seeds can help with weight management

Including them in your diet can be a great way to maintain or reduce weight. This is because the fiber in them can make you feel fuller for longer.

May reduce the absorption of some minerals

This isn't a side effect of eating flaxseeds that you'll need to worry about too much, but it's something to keep in mind if you suffer from iron or zinc deficiency.

Flax seeds contain phytic acid, a type of antinutrient that can reduce the absorption of minerals like calcium, zinc, magnesium, copper, and iron.

Flax seeds can cause digestive problems.

It happens that excessive fiber consumption can cause bloating, gas, stomach pain, and sometimes even nausea.

If you are looking to add more fiber to your regimen, make sure to increase the amount carefully to avoid any discomfort./AgroWeb.org