Tips for a Healthy Flax Diet

Flax is a healthy little seed, so how can we begin to reap its benefits in our busy lives? Luckily, flax can be added to daily diets in a variety of ways. We recommend one to two tablespoons (16g) daily. Keeping that in mind, here are some helpful hints to get your daily dose:

Getting started: When using ground flax, because of its high fiber content, add it slowly starting with about one tablespoon per day and working up to two or more per day.

Replace fat: Keep good fats in your recipes by substituting three tablespoons of ground flaxseed for one tablespoon of margarine, butter, or cooking oil.

Keep it handy: In your refrigerator, keep a handy stash of ground flax accessible in an opaque airtight container for up to 45 days. Whole flaxseeds can be stored for up to a year! Just use a coffee or spice grinder when you need them milled.

Simple on cereal: Sprinkle one to two tablespoons of milled or whole flaxseed onto your morning cereal or over salads for a nutty taste.

Dress-up: Shake or stir your daily dose of flax into your salad dressing.

Shake things up: Mix milled flax into yogurt or smoothie shakes for an extra energy boost.

Top that: Top your fruit and cottage cheese with flax for a crunchy
flax punch.

A final touch: Stir it into thicker soups, such as lentil or bean varieties, or into pasta sauces just before serving.

In the mix: You can always mix whole or milled seeds into your favorite bread dough, but how about mixing it into burgers, meatloaf, fish, or vegetable patties as a tasty change.

Flax-imum benefits: Add whole flaxseeds to cookie dough or muffin mix or sprinkle some on your favorite bread for artisan appeal.