Flax Seed or Flax Seed Oil - Which Is Best?

The benefits of flax seed and flax seed oil are becoming better known lately. Does it make a difference whether one uses ground flax seed or flax seed oil?

The answer depends on why flax seed is being taken. Flax seed and flax seed oil contain essential omega-3 fatty acids which have been proven to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Flax seed products have also been shown to reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks. They also improve brain function; ease the symptoms of menopause and depression and other conditions.

Either flax seed or flax seed oil can be consumed for the conditions described above. However, ground flax seed is more beneficial than flax seed oil, because it contains fiber and lignans that provide future health benefits. It is well known that people need dietary fiber to improve digestion. Ground flax seed is an excellent source of dietary fiber. In addition lignans are phytochemicals that are believed to prevent hormone-related cancers by binding estrogen receptors in the body.

Another benefit of using ground flax seed over flax seed oil is in storage. Flax seed oil is best stored in dark-colored packaging in the refrigerator because light and oxygen can break it down. On the other hand, flax seed can be stored for two years or longer if it is out of direct sunlight. Ground flax seed should be stored in a refrigerator or freezer. Some flax seed is referred to as cold milled. This means the seed is ground without heating the mill blades. Cold milling preserves the seed's essential nutrients.

One fun way to store whole flax seed is in a pillow. Flax seed is often used for aromatherapy pillows. Just be sure the flax seed is free of weeds and other debris and has not come into contact with chemicals. Otherwise, it should be safe for human consumption.

There are many ways to eat flax seed: Flax seed oil supplements are easy to take. Flax seed oil is also excellent to use on salads. Among the many ways to use ground flax seed is to use it in meatloaf or add it to baked goods. It also makes a tasty, nutty coating for chicken and fish. A mixture of three tablespoons of water and one tablespoon of ground flax seed can be used as a substitute for an egg in recipes. (Note: the finished product may be chewier than the traditional recipe.)

Likewise, three tablespoons of ground flax seed can be used in place of each tablespoon of fat or oils, such as butter or margarine. (Note: the finished product may brown more quickly than the traditional recipe.)

It is easy to see that while flax oil provides excellent health benefits, it is even better to use ground flax seed in the daily diet. To get even more bang out of flax's nutritional buck, look for certified organic flax seed. Certified organic flax is grown and processed without irradiation, pesticides or other additives. Certified organic flax seed allows people to get all the health benefits flax has to offer.

About The Author FlaxMatters specializes in offering a variety of products to help the customer find the appropriate flax product for their lives. Flax is rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6, protein and fiber while being easily added to common foods. They help to create an easy manner to add the benefits of flax to the daily diet by providing easy information and recipes.