Good morning, world! As I sit here in the stillness of dawn, I can't help but think about fall. Outside my window I can see the sunshine beginning to slowly roll over the hills, accentuating the cool, morning mist. The leaves in my neighborhood are gradually beginning to show signs of vibrant color... reds and yellows are timidly peeking through. I can hear my housemate Hannah frying an egg in the kitchen, but other than that there is not much life in the house yet. I really can't think of a better thing to do right now than just sit and listen to a mix of some of my favorite musicians (Ingrid Michaelson, anyone?) while enjoying a bowl of warm, gooey pumpkin pie oatmeal. Mmm, is it ever good! Pumpkin, spice, vanilla, flax seed...
Wait, what? What is this flax seed business?
Funny you should ask...
Flax seed is something that comes from the Linum family, flowering plants found in temperate and subtropical areas of the world. There are two varieties, brown and golden, and they come in three basic forms: whole, ground meal, and oil. People have been using flax seed for thousands of years - and for good reason! There's a lot of power packed into those little things.
The health benefits of flax are not few. These nutty-flavored seed have been linked to cardiovascular (i.e. heart) health, cancer prevention, and digestive health. They are full of fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3s (essential fatty acids that aid in brain function, growth and development, and inflammation reduction). Just one tablespoon of flax seed gives you 3 grams of wholesome fiber and fulfills your daily recommended amount of omega-3s.
When something is so good for you, how can you resist? There are many different ways you can wiggle flax seed into your day. Why not try mixing ground flax meal into your oatmeal or yogurt? Give that breakfast a boost! You can also add flax seed into your favorite baking recipes, mix it with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping on chicken or fish, or blend it into a delicious smoothie.
Check out these recipes that use flax seed:
No matter what you choose to do with it, you are sure to benefit from all the goodness flax seed has to offer you! Until next time,
- Rebekah
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