Flax Seed Ground Vs. Powder

Flax seed, scientific name: Linum usitatissimum, is a plant native to the Mediterranean and India but is now commonly grown in Canada. Whole flax seeds are indigestible and need to be ground. When the flax seeds are ground or formed into a powder, they can be incorporated into many recipes and are easily digested. Flax seed is a good source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and the phytonutrient, lignan.

Ground Flax Seed

Grinding flax seed helps release the essential omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. The term "essential" means that the body does not make this substance on its own; thus, it needs to be received from the diet. Omega-3 is made-up mostly of alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA for short, a substance thought to help reduce inflammation in the body. The phytonutrient called lignan is thought to be an antioxidant and may help reduce the incidence of cancer. Purchase flax seed already milled or grind it at home in a coffee grinder or food processor. Store unused ground flax seed in the refrigerator to keep the beneficial oils from becoming rancid.

Ground Flax seed Uses

Incorporate the nutty flavor of ground flax seed into baked goods such as breads, muffins and cookies. Replace the sesame seeds in chicken coatings with ground flax seed. Add ground flax seeds to smoothies to boost the nutritional value and add approximately 2 g of fiber per tablespoon. Sprinkle ground flax seeds on cereal, oatmeal and salads. Prepared yogurts tend to be high in refined sugar. Prepare your own yogurt with low-fat, plain yogurt, ground flax seed and fresh berries.

Powdered Flax Seed

Flax seeds are dehydrated and milled into a white powder form that can be used much the same way as ground flax seed but may be more easily blended than ground flax seed. Powdered flax seed also provides a good source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and lignans. It also contains 1 to 2 g of incomplete protein that can be used to boost overall protein in the diet. For those needing a laxative, powdered flax seed can be stirred into a liquid for drinking to help increase transit time in the intestinal tract.

Powdered Flax Seed Uses

Purchase flax seed already powdered or mill whole flax seeds at home by using a coffee grinder or food processor. Seeds would need to be ground longer in order to achieve a powdery consistency but you still may not be able to make it as powdery as already-prepared powdered flax seed. Incorporate powdered flax seed into breads, muffins and homemade pasta. Sprinkle it on oatmeal, cereal, yogurt and salads. Mix it into sauces, dips and chutneys. Powdered flax seed can be used as a thickening agent in smoothies and fruit or vegetable juices.