Health benefits of flaxseeds: The superseeds you need to control diabetes, blood pressure, weight issues

Flaxseeds are an invaluable addition to a well-rounded diet, especially if you're struggling to manage your weight effectively (Image: Canva)

When it comes to size in the fitness world, conventional wisdom suggests bigger is better. Bigger muscles, bigger biceps, bigger abs, and so on. But when it comes to diet must-haves to achieve these 'big' feats, it need not always be such. Take flaxseeds, for instance. These tiny seeds flex enough power within them to be counted among the most powerful superfoods in the diet world. They are loaded with enough goodies to transform your health, enhance your lipid profile, manage the dwindling blood pressure and even improve your insulin resistance.

The health benefits of flaxseeds seem endless.

Loaded with anticancer and antioxidant properties: Flaxseeds are the real superheroes when it comes to defending you against many diseases. They're good for combating menopausal symptoms, constipation, and mental fatigue. A daily serving of flaxseeds keeps your skin healthy, and fast-tracks wound healing.

Help regulate blood pressure: Flaxseeds don't just go with the (blood) flow; they help regulate it. Packed with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), they're like the Zen masters of hypertension, helping you keep your heart in top shape.

Possess anti-inflammatory properties: Loaded with lignans and omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseeds help sooth your body's inflammation blues, helping you wade through health challenges effortlessly. Flaxseeds are good for relieving chronic inflammation, a factor in various health conditions, including arthritis and autoimmune diseases.

Control diabetes: Flaxseeds are high in soluble fibre, which can slow down the digestion and absorption of sugar, helping stabilise blood sugar levels. This makes them a potential ally for those with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

Reduce LDL cholesterol levels: Flaxseeds have been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Lowering LDL cholesterol is a crucial step in reducing the risk of heart disease and promoting overall heart health.

Improve digestion: The fibre in flaxseeds aids in regular bowel movements, preventing constipation and contributing to a healthy digestive system. Additionally, it can act as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Fight anaemia: Flaxseeds are a source of dietary iron, which can help in the battle against anaemia and low hemoglobin levels. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body. Including flaxseeds in your diet can contribute to boosting iron intake and  support healthier haemoglobin levels.

Manage weight: Flaxseeds offer a winning combination of fibre and healthy fats that can aid in weight management by keeping you feeling satisfied and curbing your overall calorie intake. They're an invaluable addition to a well-rounded diet, especially if you're struggling to manage your weight effectively.