I don’t have to smell like a fish in order to get my Omega-3 fatty acids? Nope. An increasingly popular alternative, and what I find a superior choice, is flax seed (either oil, whole, or the milled variety). Flax seed is odorless, nutty in flavor, and grants all the benefits of being one of the richest sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Even ancient Egyptians recognized the advantages of flax, incorporating it into their diet as a means of curing incontinence. But the healthy rewards of doing so reach far beyond, improving conditions from heart disease to diabetes. “Omega-3 and 6 Essential Fatty Acids (EFA)… are [an] excellent defense against degenerative disease and illness, including cancer, cardiovascular, kidney, auto-immune disease, and bone and joint problems.” Source: http://www.buydominica.com/remedies/2009/05/flax-seed-oil-benefit-health/ Flax aids in healing scars, is anti-bacterial, anti-viral, contains dietary fiber and protein and you don’t end up with fish breath (as is sometimes the unfortunate side effect with ingesting fish oil supplements).

Flax seed is a modern miracle in the health community for a reason. It’s rich in Alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and lignan, which is a type phytoestrogen (antioxidant) and also provides fiber. The combination of ALA, protein and dietary fiber, cooperatively operate, transcending the benefits of their individual parts. Containing both eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), it contributes to brain and infant development, as well as cardiovascular health.

The website Stop Aging Now offers studies suggesting flax seed oil reduces skin red and roughness, and can actually improve the overall health and appearance of my skin. Check out their studies on flax seed health benefits. For years, it’s been used for animals to keep their coats glossy, and it gives the same smooth and silkiness for humans’ hair and skin. Flax seed oil works incredibly in homemade face lotions and hair gels.

In my endeavors to eat healthier, I’ve expanded my recipe repertoire with the help of flax seed. I sprinkle flax seed oil on my cereal, salad or soup for taste, bake cookies and pies with the milled seed flour, and substitute flax seed for any recipe calling for a nutty flavor ingredient. Source: http://www.healthcastle.com/flax.shtml. In mainstream consumer culture, flax seed is popping up all over the place, from cereals to muffins. It makes incorporating healthy eating choices, contributing to my improved lifestyle, easy and delicious. Flax seed is inexpensive and convenient; two important factors for those of us on the more sensible side when it comes to health trends.