FABULOUS FLAX – Feed into it !

I incorporated Flax into my routine about 10 yrs back and It’s probably one of the best ” health habits ” I ‘ve taken to. Now, like “caffeine for the soul ” I can’t be without it. It was originally cultivated in Babylon as early as the 8th century for it’s “superior powers“- fast forward 13 years and it still merits “Top Ten Foods “in Health foodie lists! Two fabulous forms of Flax : Oil and Seed – both have their fabulous benefits

Flax oil, derived from a plant is especially great for vegans who want the fish oil benefits without the fish. It is rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids which provide ” heart healthy benefits ” reduce inflammation, blast fat, keep skin, hair healthy- a de-ager if you ask me -one of the real reasons I take it.

Some tips on using it wisely.

Purchase Flax oil in opaque (dark) containers , store in refrigerator and minimize exposure to heat, light and air.
Use within 3-4 weeks to prevent it turning rancid, and purchase small quantities.
Use in smoothies, shakes, dips, salad dressings … but eat it raw! Have provided a link below for some lovely recipes using flax oil. I use flax oil in my smoothies everyday !
DO NOT cook with it. Exposure to high heat can make it harmful. Add flax to warm soups or foods just before serving.

Recommended amount – 2tbs – 4 tbs /day

Meatloaf using flax meal – Click link below for recipe

Flax seed in addition to Omega 3 and 6 also contains a powerful antioxidant called lignan, ( more than any other plant source) soluble fiber, vitamins B, C, E and some minerals. It is very beneficial for colon health, protective against cancers , healthy skin ( again) boosts immunity and lowers Cholesterol.

Some tips on using it well !

Very Important – Unless chewed, Flax seed will pass right through your system without you getting any of those fabulous benefits (except fiber) so buy Flax meal or grind the seeds using a coffee mill and make your own flax meal.
Sprinkle on cereal, salads, soups, oatmeal etc.
Use with salad dressings.
Flax meal unlike the oil can be used in cooking and baking, but remember it browns very quickly so lessen cooking time- so if your cookie recipe says 10 mts , bake for 8 instead.
Add to meat loafs, meatballs or casseroles.
Toss into pancake batter- it tastes quite delicious and the kids won’t know ( tried and tested on my guinea pigs ).
Substitute in baking – You can sub out some of the fat in the recipe with Flax meal . A good ratio is 2:1 fat is to Flax.
Store in airtight containers or freezer bags in the fridge for 45 days or freezer for up to 6 months.

For some fabulous Flax recipes using Flax seed. click link below.

How early to start – 18 months and above is fine. If you want to try it before that check with your paediatrician. My now “8 yr old “would ask for a taste of my “Flax oil smoothies “when she was two and has been hooked on them since. Start slowly, in small quantities since the taste of FLAX is more a cultivated taste and tends to grows on you.

If you have any other tips on using Flax would love to hear from you 🙂 Please share !

My favorite Brand of Flax Oil

Fabulous Flax Links

Recipes using Flax Oil

Recipes using Flax Meal

Meatloaf using Flax meal

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