Crushed Flax Seeds
The Best Benefit of Flax Seed Oil for Gout
The best-known benefit of flax seed oil is it's high Omega-3 fatty acid content. The benefits of crushed or ground flax seed for gout are even better.
Flax seed contains more than 50% Omega-3 fatty acid. This fatty acid (Alpha-Linolenic Acid or ALA) has cholesterol-reducing properties. More importantly, for gout sufferers, ALA is claimed to have some anti-inflammatory properties. I have to say, "claimed" as the studies are less than conclusive. The reaction of the body to fatty acids is very complicated. There are two main types - Omega 6 and Omega 3. For best health there should be a good balance of these. Most diets have too much Omega 6, so taking Omega 3 from flax or fish oil helps restore this balance. Flax oil is easy to take. Only 1 teaspoon per day provides enough ALA. The oil can be poured on salads. It is also available in capsules. Crushed Flax SeedAs well as the Omega-3 benefit of flax seed oil, the crushed seeds have 2 other benefits that are particularly useful for gout sufferers: - Lignans
- Lignans can act as an anti-inflammatory. They are usually lost as a benefit of flax seed oil in the pressing process. Some oils do have the lignan compounds added.
- Fiber
- Fibrous food is beneficial to gout sufferers as it reduces the risk of constipation. Up to one third of uric acid is excreted through the bowel.
Crushed seeds can be sprinkled on most foods or added to bread dough etc. Side EffectsThe only side effect that I have heard of with flax oil is that it can occasionally cause a rash. If this happens, reduce the amount of flax oil you are taking - even at a reduced dosage you will still feel the benefit of flax seed oil. Crushed flax seeds, like most fibrous foods, can upset the digestion at first. It is best to start with a small amount, and gradually increase to a maximum of one tablespoon per day. Flax Seed and Gout Pain
The main benefit of flax seed oil is a long-term improvement in the immune system. This should help reduce the amount of inflammation if a gout attack occurs. See the
Reaction
part of U-D-R-P for more information. The fiber in crushed flax seed will also help reduce uric acid levels. What To Look For
The crushing process that releases the important flax seed oil is known by a number of different names. Look for crushed, ground, or milled flax seed.
Return from Benefit of Flax Seed Oil to Gout Prevention Remedies
|
