Flax seed: Combat Cholesterol
and Prevent Heart Disease
The high
fiber
content,
lignans and
omega-3
qualities in flax seed are natural preventative properties for
heart disease. Studies prove that when flax seed is added to the
diet, harmful LDL cholesterol drops, while good HDL cholesterol
remains or increases.
HDL is the abbreviation for high-density
lipoprotein cholesterol. HDL is often referred to as the "good
cholesterol". HDL cholesterol helps clear the blood stream of
the artery-clogging properties we ingest with too much fried
foods, baked goods and red meats. Yet, HDL cannot do an adequate
job when the LDL levels in the diet are overwhelmingly high or
when we do not take in enough omega-3 fatty acids.
LDL is the commonly known abbreviation for
low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and is sometimes referred
to as "bad cholesterol". LDL cholesterol and other substances
can build up in the walls of the arteries and form a plaque. As
plaque continues to build up, it causes the arteries to harden
and narrow, a condition known as arteriosclerosis.
It is often difficult to fully understand
which condition precludes the other, but essentially both
conditions tax the heart muscle significantly and cause numerous
complications in one’s health. The reduction of blood flow
affects all of the body’s tissues and compromises the ability of
the heart to function properly. At times, the plaque may rupture
and a blood clot may form in the artery and partially or totally
block blood flow from this vessel. This can eventually lead to
damage or death of tissues; thereby causing heart attack or
stroke.
By lowering LDL cholesterol, a person is able
to significantly reduce risk of heart disease and accompanying
health complications. Current dietary advice for those at risk
from coronary artery disease focus on the restriction of
saturated fatty acids and cholesterol intake, combined with
exercise and ideal body weight. Also emphasized is the need to
increase intake of alpha-linolenic acid – the major component of
the omega-3 fatty acids found in flax seed. (Research entitled
"Studies Concerning Lignans, Fiber and Anti-oxidants Found in
Flax)
The September 1998 Health magazine highlighted
the heart-healthy properties of flax seed, noting a 1993 study
where flax seed added to the daily diet significantly lowered
cholesterol. 50 grams (.28 cup) a heaping 1/4 cup measured
before grinding (.36cup) (3/8 cup of milled) of ground flax seed
was added to the menu of healthy females for four weeks. The
additions of flax seed to the women’s diets allowed their total
cholesterol to drop 9%. Of greater significance, their LDL, the
kind that clogs arteries, dropped 18%. Remember, this is just
after 4 weeks of trial tests. Research continues and is gaining
greater significance and validity to the healthful properties of
flax seed. Make sure you link to the
research information if you desire
further specifics.
In summary, the
omega-3 essential fatty acids,
fiber and
lignans in flax seed are major helpers in
keeping arteries flexible. Stiffened blood vessel walls are also
caused by conditions of high blood pressure and
diabetes, which
can also lead to high risks of stroke and heart attack. It is
helpful to know that the properties of flax seed are also useful
in maintaining blood pressure and healthy blood sugar levels.
Refer to these links for further information of the conditions
of
diabetes and
blood pressure (hypertension).
MegaOmega™ Organic Sprouted Flax Products
are the choice for heart health. They are significantly higher
in the
omega-3 essential fatty acids,
fiber and
lignans found clinically effective in the
treatment of cholesterol and heart disease than flax powder.
See
the comparison between
MegaOmega™ Organic Sprouted Flax and
milled flax.
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