Flaxseed has been prized by civilizations for thousands of years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids and can do everything from support your gut to possibly reduce the risk of cancer. Believe it or not, King Charlemagne felt so passionately about the health benefits of flaxseed that he required his subjects to consume them daily.
1. Supports gut health
Flaxseed has a lot of fiber. Flax skin is so fibrous, it has been used to make linen and paper for centuries. Flaxseed has soluble and insoluble fiber, and while both are crucial to maintaining our health, insoluble fiber keeps our stomachs in check and running smoothly. The insoluble fiber in flaxseed can help things keep moving in your intestines and prevent constipation while also improving hemorrhoids and fecal incontinence.