Flaxseed is the way forward according to Catherine McCurry
MAINTAINING a healthy and balanced diet can be challenging for most of us, particularly when we encounter numerous temptations on a daily basis.
From sweets and treats in shops, cafes, our homes and work places, it’s hard not to sneak a few calorific-packed pastries and chocolates.
It takes sheer determination to resist the temptations of cakes and biscuits everyday and quite frankly I struggle to say no if I’m offered a tray bake.
Despite this, I do aim to maintain a balanced diet and find that if I eat enough of the ‘lean and clean’ food, then I’m less prone to eat the fatty foods.
To help boost my healthy diet, there’s one ingredient I always ensure is included in my meals, whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner – and that’s flaxseed.
As small as these grains may be, they’re packed with fiber, antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids and go with everything, from cereal, salad, yoghurt, smoothies and all meals.
Flaxseed can be mixed with liquid or food, such as muffins or bread. Or, for better absorption, some people grind whole flaxseed before using it.
This new wonder food has a whole range of health benefits, whether it’s an energy boost you’re after or it’s to improve your immunity.
Flaxseed is high in most of the B vitamins, magnesium, and manganese, and Linwoods do a fantastic range which come in ten variety packs.
Whether it’s protein for the growth of muscles, fibre, Vitamin E, Zinc, or the sunshine Vitamin D, they’re all packed with greatness.
The milled flaxseed with almonds, brazil nuts and walnuts packet is great for healthy hair, skin and nails, while the packet containing goji berries works well for those who want to support their immune system.
While flaxseed is not technically a grain, it has a similar vitamin and mineral profile to grains, while the amount of fiber, antioxidants, and Omega-3 fatty acids in flax leaves grains in the dust.
Some people believe flaxseed helps with heart health, supports a person’s mood and emotional wellbeing and helps maintain the skin’s barriers.
There is no set dose for flaxseed and it must be ground prior to ingestion or it won’t be able to provide benefits for the health conditions described – which the Linwoods packets provide.
But, if you are one of those people who don’t enjoy the texture of flax seed and feel it’s too much with meals then simply take one scoop and wash down with water or orange juice.
They’re available to buy in health food stores, Tesco and local chemists and are priced between £5 and £7.
