Benefits of Flax Seed

Aug 9, 2010 | By Marek Doyle

There is more to flax seeds than simply the oil they contain. Although flax seeds contain a high concentration of omega-3 oils and represent the richest form of the essential fatty acids available from any common plant foods, complete seeds demonstrate an ability to improve digestion and overall well-being.

Alpha Linolenic Acid

Unlike most seeds, flax seeds contain a high concentration of omega-3 oils, essential for the normal development of cells and especially involved in insulin sensitivity, the production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins and balancing cholesterol levels. Udo Erasmus, a nutritional researcher and the author of "Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill," reports that alpha linolenic acid represents 40 percent of the oil within a flax seed. Erasmus explains that this fat, a plant precursor to the more active omega-3 oils eicosapentanoic acid and decosahexanoic acid, can satisfy all of the body's omega-3 requirements.

Sterols

Flax seeds contain beta-sitosterol, a common sterol found in a number of plants. Disease Proof, a blog maintained by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, says that sterols, which share a similar molecular structure to the much-maligned cholesterol compound, demonstrate an ability to reduce cholesterol levels in the bloodstream and reduce cardiovascular risk. Sterols reduce the amount of cholesterol entering the body by competing for absorption in the intestines.

Fiber

Like many other seeds, flax seeds contain insoluble fiber that may help improve digestive transit and provide solid material for the absorption of toxins in the intestines. However, flax also provides fiber mucilage, which creates a soft jelly-like mass. Researchers from the Mayo Clinic say that this can create a laxative effect, which can help restore a more healthy intestinal pattern, although they warn that large doses of flax without adequate water intake may precipitate bowel obstruction.