Grocery Item of the Week: Flax Seed Meal

Anytime I can add nutrients to a meal I jump at the chance! Flax has many great benefits! 

According to Livestrong, although flax seed contains all sorts of healthy components, it owes its healthy reputation primarily to three ingredients:

• Omega-3 essential fatty acids: "good" fats that have been shown to have heart-healthy effects. Each tablespoon of ground flax seed contains about 1.8 grams of plant omega-3s.                                                          
• Lignans: which have both plant estrogen and antioxidant qualities. Flax seed contains 75-800 times more lignans than other plant foods.
• Fiber: Flax seed contains both the soluble and insoluble types.

Flax seed is known to, lower risk of heart disease, prevent some cancers, help manage diabetes, and assist with,  arthritis, psoriasis and lupus, as well as add fiber to your diet, allowing you to feel fuller longer.

Flax seed meal can be added to almost anything, including bread, muffins, meat loaves, pasta dish, salad, yogurt, breakfast cereals, oatmeal, and smoothies. It is best to buy the meal or grind your seeds for optimal absorption of all the nutrients. Store ground meal in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent spoilage and odors. 

Flax seed meal can be found in your grocery store, in the health food, baking, or cereal isle.