Supermarket superfood: How flaxseed could combat high blood pressure in 12 weeks
High blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to a slew of health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and extensive damage to the eyes and kidneys. Often dubbed the silent killer, hypertension tends to lie dormant until grave health concerns arise.
7:14 AM EST, January 15, 2024
The pancreas often signals distress post-meal with an increased level of activity.
Experts suggest a daily intake of just about an ounce of flaxseed can reduce blood pressure in 12 weeks. Specialists indicate a possible decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) by around 13 percent and slightly over 5 percent in diastolic pressure.
Flaxseed’s high blood pressure-fighting capabilities primarily emanate from its potassium content, which helps to offset the negative impacts of sodium (salt) in your diet, including imbalances in your body's water equilibrium and excessive stress on your blood vessels.
High quantities of alpha-linolenic acid, lignans, and fiber fortify potassium's effects. Scientists postulate that these nutrients aid gastrointestinal peristalsis and shield the cells lining your blood vessels. They thus work to deter abrupt blood pressure surges.
The pancreas often signals distress post-meal with an increased level of activity.
The all-round benefits of flaxseed
In addition to potassium, flaxseed is a good source of vitamins E and B6, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and necessary protein and omega-3 fatty acids for a well-rounded diet.
Flaxseed is also a proven remedy for constipation and promotes the health of your hair and skin.
Proximity to the bed can lead to potential health issues.
How should you consume flaxseed?
Flaxseed can be consumed raw in ground form (a coffee grinder could do the trick) or mixed into warm water. It's worth incorporating ground flaxseed into oatmeal, yogurts, salads, fruit and vegetable smoothies, pasta, and any other meal you fancy.
Flaxseed swells and releases a gel-like valuable substance as an egg substitute in recipes requiring a crunchy crust when soaked in water. The jelly-like resultant substance can be sweetened (for instance, by adding honey) or mixed with spices to add flavor and vary the consistency of savory dishes.
Even minuscule quantities of flaxseed in your daily diet can noticeably improve overall health.
