Flax Q&A

Disclaimer: The information on his web site is not intended to be used to treat or diagnose any illness. Health benefits of products will vary between individuals. Medical practitioners should always be consulted before adding dietary supplements, especially when user is taking prescription drugs or is dealing with a pre-existing condition.

Here are some questions we frequently get at Flaxking -

How long has flax been around?

History of flax dates back at least 5,000 years where it was cultivated in Babylon. One of the greatest of all the medieval kings, King Charlemagne, considered the seeds of the flax plant so healthy he passed laws requiring their consumption.

Is flax all the same?

No, all flax is not the same. What variety, where it was produced, and how it was stored, and packaged are all important considerations. Without knowing these things, consumers cannot be sure of the quality. Premium Gold grows and packages their flax seed products right on the farm.

Which is better, brown flaxseed or golden flaxseed?

Some distributors of golden flaxseed claim it is nutritionally superior to brown flaxseed. Research from the Flax Council of Canada, however, indicates that both types are good choices and very similar in composition.

Can I eat whole flax seeds?

Be wary: whole un-milled flaxseed is NOT digestible by humans. It only acts as a laxative. (In fact it moves so efficiently that after it passes through the digestive tract it can be planted and it will grow.) It needs to be milled to allow the digestive tract to absorb the nutrients contained in the seed.

What is the shelf life of Flax?

Whole flaxseed can be stored at room temperature for up to a year (as long as it is fresh when you buy it). Milled Flaxseed is not ground or crushed, in order to leave as much of the oil as possible within the cell walls (not exposed to oxygen) . The best milled flax comes from operations that use a “Cold” milling process, whereby the flax is not exposed to any heat during the milling process. The flax should be packaged in light-proof vacuum-packed bags to ensure long shelf life. Premium Gold utilizes these processes. The shelf life of un-opened bag of most milled flax is at least 10 months, and at least 2 months after opening and stored under refrigeration. Premium Gold’s True Cold milling process has extended the shelf life to 18-24 months – even after opening – and un-refrigerated!

How much Flax should I eat?

The recommended daily intake is 2 tablespoons (or more) of Milled Flax to gain the maximum benefits.

Are there any side effects?

Some people experience some bloating and gas for the first few weeks. It is advisable for those with currently low fiber diets to introduce the flax slowly – maybe 1 table spoon daily for the first week to see how their body reacts. Milled Flax Seed absorbs 8 times its weight in water, so drink an extra glass of water per day. Weight loss may occur when using three tablespoons or more of Milled Flax seed per day.

I take flax or fish oil already. Isn’t that better than eating flax?

Although there is nothing wrong with getting your EFA’s (essential fatty acids) from fish of flax oil, you would be missing two out of the three big benefits of eating flax. You will not be getting the great fiber, or the lignans that are only found in the seed. Another consideration is that fish oil would be a no-no for vegetarians, and what fish did the oil come from? The same with flax oil. Where did it come from?

Why not just eat fish?

Fish has always been considered the best source of EFA’s (essential fatty acids). But in the present day and age there are many health concerns with eating large quantities of fish. The best source of EFA’s are only from certain cold water fish. Flax has much higher concentrations of EFA’s and can be added to virtually any food or dish.

Can I give it to my kids?

Absolutely! Kids really benefit from the flax more than anyone. Their developing bodies crave the nutrients. The EFA’s are essential for normal brain development. All age groups can benefit from flax. Give it to your pets as well. Many quality pet foods now incorporate Omega-3’s.

Premium Pups - Angel and CK the wonder dog Love their daily flax!

What are Lignans?

Lignans are a specific type of soluble fiber that contains the hormone-balancing compound Secoisolariciresinol Diglucoside (SDG). Many studies have shown the Lignans to be powerful plant based cancer fighting agents as well as antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral. Flax provides 100 times the lignans levels of other sources. Premium Gold now has a concentrated Lignan product. Great as an Immune system booster during cold and flu season or anytime you are feeling ill.

Certain medical condition questions

I have high blood pressure
I have diabetes
I have high cholesterol

Flax is great for all of these conditions. The soluble fiber in the whole seed helps lower cholesterol, regulate blood pressure and blood sugars.

I am constipated
I have diverticulosis
I have diverticulitis
I have IBS or other digestive disorder

Fibers found in flax promote normal laxation and are essential in treating and preventing all of the above symptoms. Most people with these symptoms should eat finely ground flax, introduced slowly to their diets, and should always consult their medical practitioner before changing anything in their diet.

What are some suggestions on how to start?

Add 1-2 Tablespoons to juice or water, stir and drink or add that same amount to your favorite shake , smoothie or nutritional drink. Shake some Dash O Flax™ or other flax products on your pizza, soup, salads, cereals (hot or cold). Put on your favorite hot dish, hash browns, and baked potatoes. Use as a thickener in your sauces (Add when almost ready to serve a few dashes and your sauces are thicker and healthier). The options are endless; use your imagination and help your health by adding flax to your diet.

Can I cook with flax seeds or oils?

Baking with flax is a great way to introduce it into foods you normally eat. Keep in mind that the living enzymes and EFA’s are killed when heated to high temperatures. Instead, you may want to sprinkle milled flax onto your foods after cooking – the possibilities are endless. You should never cook with flax oil. Instead, use the oil for salad dressings, dips, vegetable toppings and smoothies. Use your imagination.

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