Flaxseed

Figure 1. Brown Flaxseeds.

Flaxseed is the seed of the Flax or Linum usitatissimum plant. Flaxseed is also known as Linseed. Flaxseeds generally come in two varieties: brown or yellow. Both varieties, however, are similar in nutrient composition. Yellow Flaxseeds are sometimes called Solin or Linola. Flaxseed can be ground into a meal or turned into Flaxseed oil.

Figure 2. Yellow Flaxseeds.

Flaxseeds are very high in Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically alpha-Linolenic acid. Flaxseeds are a good source of plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids (as opposed to Fish Oil).

Flaxseeds are a good source of Dietary Fiber. Flaxseeds are taken as a dietary supplement to help with constipation, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, cancer, and several other conditions. Other nutrients in Flaxseeds also include lignans and antioxidants.

Flaxseed is a nutrient-rich food source. Per 7g of ground Flaxseed provides:

• 37 calories
• 1.28g of protein
• 2.95g of fat
• 2.02g of carbohydrate
• 1.91g of dietary fiber
• 17.8mg of Calcium
• 27.4mg of Magnesium
• 44.9mg of Phosphorus
• 56.9mg of Potassium
• 6.09mcg of Folate
• 45.6mcg of Lutein and Zeaxanthin