Source:
Flaxseeds, also known as linseeds, come from the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), a crop cultivated for its fiber, used in making linen, and its seeds, valued for their nutritional benefits.
Flax has been cultivated since ancient times and is native to regions of the Middle East and the Mediterranean.
Name of Marker Compounds and Their Chemical Nature:
1. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA):
A type of omega-3 fatty acid that is plant-based.
ALA is an essential fatty acid, meaning the body cannot synthesize it, so it must be obtained through the diet.
It is a polyunsaturated fat with anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Lignans:
Flaxseeds are a rich source of lignans, which are polyphenolic compounds.
One of the most notable lignans in flaxseeds is secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), which is converted by intestinal bacteria into enterolactone and enterodiol, compounds with estrogenic and antioxidant activities.
3. Dietary Fiber:
Flaxseeds contain a high amount of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble.
The soluble fiber (mucilage) binds with water, while the insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool.
Medicinal Uses and Health Benefits:
1. Cardiovascular Health:
The ALA in flaxseeds has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease by reducing blood pressure, arterial inflammation, and cholesterol levels.
The soluble fiber in flaxseeds can also help lower LDL cholesterol levels.
2. Anti-inflammatory:
Omega-3 fatty acids, like ALA, and lignans possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation, such as arthritis.
3. Cancer Prevention:
Lignans in flaxseeds may help reduce the risk of various cancers, particularly hormone-sensitive ones like breast cancer, by modulating estrogen metabolism.
They also have antioxidant properties that help protect cells from DNA damage.
4. Digestive Health:
The high fiber content in flaxseeds promotes regular bowel movements and can improve gut health. The soluble fiber helps soften stool, while the insoluble fiber adds bulk, which may prevent constipation.
5. Blood Sugar Control:
The soluble fiber in flaxseeds can slow down the digestion rate of carbohydrates, leading to a more gradual increase in blood sugar levels after meals, which is beneficial for people with diabetes.