Omega-3
One cheap source can be found in flax seed meal, which I think is a better source than flax seed oil, because it doesn't go rancid fast like oil. One tablespoon of flax seed meal has 10 times more potential Omega-3 than most fish oil capsules. It doesn't give Omega-3 directly but the body processes it to become Omega-3 and Omega-6(another EFA) from a chemical alpha linolenic acid (ALA).
ALA is an Omega-3 that is a precursor to the fatty acids found in salmon and other fatty cold-water fish (called EPA and DHA). Because not everyone is able to easily convert ALA into EPA and (especially) DHA, it is best not to rely solely on flax for your Omega-3 intake. However, ALA also has other good effects of its own, and definitely helps in the Omega 3/6 balance. Enough people can process enough Omega-3 and Omega-6 from flax meal that is well worth taking it--especially the cost of salmon and fish oil supplements.
Other benefits:
flax seed is high in most of the B vitamins, which is known as the "happy" vitamin
- converting food to energy
- forming healthy red blood cells
- reducing the risk of heart disease
- reduce or even eliminate PMS symptoms
- reduce or eliminate anemia
- Mood changes
- irritability
- nervousness
- fatigue
- depression
- headaches
Flax seed meal also has a high content of magnesium, which plays a big part in keeping the heart healthy, making sure bones are strong and helping the body absorb other important minerals such as calcium and potassium. Magnesium is also important to women who are pregnant, experience menopause or are at risk for osteoporosis. Getting the right amount of magnesium daily can help prevent leg cramps, migraines and fatigue.
Flax Seed Meal is also high in manganese actively involved in forming connective tissues, absorption of calcium, proper functioning of thyroid, sex hormones, regulating blood sugar level, and metabolism of fats and carbohydrates.It is a powerful antioxidant that searches the free radicals in human body and manages to neutralize these damaging particles and prevent any potential danger they may cause. Manganese is very important for normal functioning of the brain and nerve areas of our body.
Flax Seed Meal is High in Fiber: You’d be hard-pressed to find a food higher in fiber -- both soluble and insoluble -- than flax. This fiber is probably mainly responsible for the cholesterol-lowering effects of flax. Fiber in the diet also helps stabilize blood sugar, and, of course, promotes proper functioning of the intestines.
Flax Seed Meal is High in Phytochemicals: phytochemicals, including many antioxidants. It is perhaps our best source of lignans, which converted in our intestines to substances that tend to balance female hormones. There is evidence that lignans may promote fertility, reduce peri-menopausal symptoms, and possibly help prevent breast cancer. In addition, lignans may help prevent Type 2 diabetes.
So at least a tablespoon of flax meal a day in a smoothie or in sauces can have serious health benefits.
