For anyone in search of a healthy body, both inside and out, flax seed is an arrow of neccessity within the quiver of supplements. Derived from the flax plant, flax seed is comprised of 1/3 oil, and the rest is made up of fiber, protein and mucilage. It provides a rich source of essential fatty acids – containing alpha linolenic acid, omega 3’s and omega 6’s – while also offering lignans (estrogen-like chemicals that acts as antioxidants), vitamins and minerals.
The seed contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, as well as mucilage, which helps to stabilize blood sugar levels. It is also considered the richest source of lignans, which boost the production of a substance attached to estrogen and carry it out of the body, in addition to acting as antioxidants. But perhaps better yet, it also contains protein. For every 100 grams of flax seeds, you get about 25-30g of protein, which is an amazing benefit when one considers all the other nutrients that accompany the protein.
The oil derived from flax seed is also a great source of essential fatty acids, including omega 3’s which North American diets typically lack. Omega 3’s have not only been shown to reduce blood pressure, cholesterol and plaque formation, but they have also been found to kill certain cancer cells, aid skin problems such as acne, and improve one’s response to stress. Flaxseed oil can be purchased in softgel cap form which provide just the right proportion of the three essental fatty acids.
Aside from the inner effects, flax seed also provides invaluable benefits for bodybuilders that include:
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Reduced body fat
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Shortened recovery time
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Reduced muscle soreness
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Increased utilization of oxygen and other nutrients
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and the bottom line….more muscle
So again, while I have a somewhat guarded stance when it comes to supplements, flax seed (both in ground up form so you can digest it and in oil capsules — take both) is a must have!
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