Linseed, a Natural Weight Loss Alternative
Linseed has been known for years for its health-giving properties. There is not yet enough evidence to prove that it reduces the risk of heart disease but there’s some evidence that it may lower cholesterol levels. One study of 66 patients found lipid-lowering effects following a daily supplement of tablets containing linseed but this needs to be confirmed by other studies.
Ground linseed may also help with menopausal symptoms as it acts in a similar way to hormone therapy to improve hot flushes and night sweats. Some studies suggest it may improve kidney function and further studies are being carried out into its usefulness in many other conditions, ranging from diabetes to osteoporosis.
Linseed comes in two basic varieties which are brown yellow or golden. Most types have similar nutritional characteristics and equal numbers of short-chain omega-3 fatty acids. Linseed produces a vegetable oil known as flaxseed oil or linseed oil which is one of the oldest commercial oils.
The so-called superseed has properties that act as anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, detoxifiers, and anti-allergants.
How does linseed cause weight loss?
Linseed is a great friend to you in your weight loss efforts! As we mentioned above, it has antioxidant properties that improve metabolism. Its dietary fibre will make you feel full, which helps prevent hunger pangs and thanks to its omega-3 fatty acids, it can reduce the craving for sugar.
Linseed treatment for weight loss
If you want to take advantage of the benefits of linseed to help you in your weight loss diet, you should start to include it in your diet in a disciplined and controlled way. In order to do that, there is a routine which you can follow every day. You will need:
- ground linseed
- water
Instructions
Before starting this treatment, it’s best to see a qualified nutritionist who can work out the ideal dosage for your body. In general, it is recommended that you have three tablespoons of linseed a day, divided throughout the day. Most people find it best to take it with their three main meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. For each tablespoon of ground linseed, you will have to drink a glass of water. Since there are three tablespoons, you will drink 3 glasses of water before each meal during the day.
If you would prefer you can take the same linseed ration by adding it to foods like cereals, yogurt, smoothies and salads. Its weight loss producing properties will stay the same and will give you good results as well.
Lastly, you can substitute all the oils in your diet with linseed oil. You could use it instead of cooking oil, margarine and butter. If a dish you are making contains these ingredients, we recommend using three tablespoons of linseed oil instead.
To get the best results
- You should be consistent in your consumption of linseed to get the best results. Do not stop and start the treatment. You should start to notice the changes in the first month.
- We recommend eating linseed for two months in a row and then take a break for 3 to 4 weeks before starting over.
- Combine the consumption of linseed with a balanced, healthy, and fat free diet.
- Remember that it is essential that you have a good exercise routine to improve your figure.
Side effects and treatment warnings
Eating linseed can have some side effects for some people because not everyone will react to it in the same way. It is very important that you take care if you have any long term health condition or are taking any medication.
Linseed oil has some interactions with medications and mainly influences the speed in which they are absorbed in the body. You must discuss this with your doctor before you take any linseed.
Omega-3 fatty acids, although beneficial, can cause haemorrhages in some people because of the anticoagulant effects. This same property can raise blood sugar in some people. It is important not to take more than the recommended dosage.
