Plus, try some of our favorite flaxseed recipes for a super-healthy boost.

Flaxseeds have proven to be a potent powerhouse food packed with heart-healthy benefits and protective properties.

And while they may seem like such teenyseeds, don’t let their small size fool you.

What Are Flaxseeds?

Flaxseed Health Benefits

Flaxseed boasts tons of health benefits for your heart down to your gut.

Here are some of the biggest reasons to add more flaxseeds to your diet.

Flaxseeds are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber.

Insoluble fiber promotes the movement of material through your digestive system and increases stool bulk.

Since flaxseeds are packed with fiber, they can also help you to feel full faster and longer.

Builds Muscle

Protein is an important building block for bones, muscles, cartilage, and skin.

(In fact, did you know that your hair and nails are mostly protein?)

Flaxseeds are a great source of high-quality, plant-based protein.

Adding flaxseed to a smoothie or salad can helpboost your protein intake in the morningor evening.

Because flaxseeds are high in anti-inflammatory omega-3s, they can help curb inflammation in the skin.

Flaxseeds are also high in antioxidants, such as lignans, which work to combat free radicals.

This helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

It also promotes faster healing if you have skin wounds or acne scars.

Flaxseed also showed to alleviate vaginal atrophy in some menopausal people.

The result is frail and brittle bones that are more susceptible to breaks.

Potassium helps neutralize bone-depleting metabolic acids, which reduces calcium loss from bones.

This means that, overall, potassium is essential for supporting bone mineral density.

Supports Brain Health

Along with heart and bone health, flaxseed consumption also supportsbrain health.

“Research suggests that regular ALA intake may offer neuroprotective benefits and help promote healthy brain aging.”

Sedivy recommends grinding flaxseeds to get the most out of them.

Flaxseed Uses and Ideas

Get creative with flaxseedsbecause the options are really endless.

“They’re virtually tasteless, and when ground, they won’t change the texture of your batter.

This is a simple way to add nutrients to your meal without sacrificing taste or flavor.”

you could also toss them over salads, veggies, oatmeal, and smoothies.

Or add them topestos, hummus, and sauces.

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