The lowdown on flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are little golden seeds from one of the oldest fibre crops in the world. They can be found either whole or pre-ground in supermarkets and are a rich source of micronutrients, dietary fibre, manganese, vitamin B1 and omega-3.

Flaxseeds are best eaten ground, as this releases the oils and nutrients within them. They can be added to absolutely anything and used to cook with and this won’t reduce the amount of essential fatty acids found in them.

Flaxseeds have a high omega-3 content and are a great addition for vegetarians or those who don’t eat much fish. They are great for the heart, brain and nervous systems and also anti-inflammatory.

Flaxseeds are also very high in fibre content aiding your digestive system and help prevent symptoms such as constipation.

Did you know? Just two tablespoons of ground flaxseed will provide you with almost 15% of your required daily intake of dietary fibre.

Two recipes using flaxseeds

Porridge with flaxseeds (serves 2) 

• In a saucepan, add 250ml water and 115g oats. Bring to the boil and simmer for about 6-7 minutes, until most of the liquid has been absorbed.
• Add 250ml of almond milk, two grated apples, 1/2tsp of ground cinnamon and 1tbsp of flaxseeds and 1tsp of vanilla extract or honey to sweeten.
• Cook for another 3-4 minutes until creamy and then serve.

Blueberry and flaxseed super smoothie (serves 1)

• Place 200g blueberries, 1tbsp ground flaxseeds, a large handful of spinach, 2tbsp (heaped) greek yoghurt and 250ml of almond milk.
• Blend and serve immediately.