Hi again, Clare from the Refillery with this month’s eco-blog thanks to @lovegorey.
I’ll admit that I was struggling to think of a good topic for this month’s write up. I was so preoccupied with opening our second store in Tullow, that I was drawing a blank. Until a customer, who was buying some organic golden flaxseeds, gave me some much needed and much-appreciated inspiration.
She told me that five thousand years ago, the Egyptians held flax and flaxseed in such high regard, that it was used as currency to pay their soldiers. Not only did they use it as a currency, they used flax to make sarcophagus for their dead kings and queens, they made exquisite garments from flax fibers, they used flax oil for cooking and they used copious amounts of Flax seeds in their diet. Now, I’ll be honest, I didn’t know much about Flaxseeds and their benefits until I started digging, but I was genuinely blown away by how good these little seeds are. So here is a bit of what I learned:
Flax seeds have a nutty taste, can be eaten on their own or crushed, or cold pressed to release flaxseed oil also known as linseed. Linseed is commonly used in cereals and bread.
Flaxseed provides many essential nutrients; specifically, it is rich in fiber, omega 3-fatty acids, and lignans. Flaxseeds are the richest sources of lignans, a type of phytoestrogen which may protect against some serious illnesses.
Flaxseed can help with digestive issues like constipation and IBS, it has been shown to lower levels of bad cholesterol reducing the risks of heart disease and strokes and it helps keep you feeling full which can help with weight management. Some research suggests flaxseed oil can help manage type 2 diabetes. They have been shown to be beneficial for proper infant growth and development, managing autoimmune disease and inflammation. The recommended dosage is 1.6 grams per day for men; and 1.1 grams per day for women.
As for some anecdotal reports that they can help reduce symptoms of menopause, this is largely unproven.
Try to incorporate them into your diet by adding 1 tbsp of whole or ground flax seed to your cereal, yogurt, sauces, casseroles, pasta dishes or soups. Add them to smoothies, sprinkle on salads, use in marinades or sprinkle on potatoes and other veggies.. Add ground flax seeds to home-baked goods, such as muffins, cakes, cookies, or breads. You can replace other oils and margarine/butter with flax seed oil.
It’s hard to argue with the science behind these wonderful little seeds and I encourage you to look up their benefits for yourself. Or just ask you nearest Egyptian Pharaoh!.
Organic Golden flaxseeds are available at The Refillery Gorey and Tullow.
Thanks for reading.
Clare @The Refillery
