In this article we will tell you:
- Composition and main beneficial properties of flaxseed
- The benefits of flax for the intestines
- Indications and recommendations for colon cleansing with flax seeds
- Contraindications to flax consumption
- Possible complications from eating flax
Flaxseed is a plant food that contains healthy fats, antioxidants and fiber. Some people call it a “functional food,” which means a person can add flax to their diet to improve their health.
But the fact that flax seeds are beneficial for the body has been known for a long time. Hippocrates also advised taking them for digestive problems and inflammation of the gastric mucosa.
What are the benefits of flaxseeds and can they be harmful to humans?
General information
Not all people know that many diseases develop due to problems with the large intestine. Cleansing the intestines can be the first step towards a healthy life, because this organ largely determines the normal functioning of other systems. The intestine is an organ of the excretory system, and it is in it that toxins and wastes are collected in the first place. If you carry out timely preventative cleaning, you can avoid many unpleasant phenomena. Flax seeds have worked well for cleansing the intestines. This is an accessible method, the use of which has a positive effect on the body as a whole. Flax seeds activate the reduction of blood sugar levels, improve visual acuity and gastrointestinal function, and improve immunity . Taking them helps rejuvenate the skin and the body as a whole. How to use flaxseed to cleanse the intestines, what recipes can be used and why you should periodically cleanse the intestines will be discussed in the article below.
Why is cleaning necessary?
In the human intestine there are various protrusions in which waste remains. Gradually, such accumulations can rot, releasing substances that provoke intoxication of the body. The following signs may indicate the need to clean this organ:
- constant constipation ;
- development of diabetes mellitus ;
- the appearance of excess weight ;
- symptoms of metabolic disorders;
- deterioration of immunity ;
- kidney and liver diseases;
- increased blood pressure ;
- deterioration of hair and nails.
Such symptoms can be prevented by periodic cleaning.
What are the benefits of flax seeds?
Cleansing with flax is very effective, since its seeds have a number of very important and beneficial properties, and they contain substances necessary for the body:
- Fiber – due to it, peristalsis is stimulated and normal microflora is created in the intestines.
- Vitamins – the seeds contain a lot of vitamin A , as well as B vitamins, etc. Consumption of flax helps restore the balance of vitamins and nutrients in the body.
- Linamarin - produces a mild laxative effect, activating the secretion and motor activity of the intestines. Thanks to the laxative effect, toxins are actively eliminated naturally.
- Proteins – ensure the normalization of fat metabolism.
- Fatty acids – since the seeds contain an impressive amount of Omega-3 , Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids, flax helps reduce blood cholesterol
Cleansing occurs due to the special structure of flax seeds. Once in the stomach, the seeds swell and are not digested immediately. This helps to increase the tone of the intestinal walls, it stretches, and food passes faster. Moving forward, the seeds cleanse the walls of toxins, excess water, etc. And since flax also has a laxative effect, this contributes to a more active exit of feces from the body.
The seeds secrete mucus, which envelops the mucous membrane, providing its protection. The important thing is that this mucus is not affected by gastric juice, and it effectively heals wounds, ulcers, and reduces the severity of inflammation.
Since the seeds swell greatly, due to their increase, the feeling of fullness is maintained for quite a long time. Therefore, in the process of such cleansing, a person eats less, which makes it possible to lose weight.
Thus, provided that cleaning is carried out correctly, the following results can be achieved:
- improve health status in case of peptic ulcer ;
- reduce cholesterol levels and cleanse the intestines of accumulated toxins;
- get rid of constant constipation and pain during bowel movements;
- reduce weight;
- improve the general condition of the liver, circulatory system, joints;
- ensure the prevention of colon cancer;
- contribute to the destruction of viruses, fungi, helminths .
Treatment and cleansing with flax and linseed oil is indicated for the following diseases associated with the gastrointestinal tract:
- dysbacteriosis;
- peptic ulcer;
- esophagitis;
- colitis;
- pancreatitis;
- gastritis;
- constipation;
- metabolic disorders, excess weight.
As an additional positive effect, you can respond to the beneficial effects of flax on the condition of the skin, hair, and nails.
Use of seeds
The intestinal tract is where food undergoes the main process of digestion. Here, many substances are broken down, useful substances, vitamins, and minerals are extracted from food and transferred to the bloodstream to nourish all internal organs. But undigested food remains, dirt, and fat also collect here. All this settles on the walls of the organ, creating sources of inflammatory processes, a breeding ground for worms, and conditions for the development of dysbacteriosis.
Therefore, cleaning must be done regularly. If you consume the seeds correctly, you can achieve the following results (benefits):
- Cure peptic ulcers formed in the stomach. This is achieved with the help of mucus secreted from the seeds.
- The balance between beneficial and harmful microorganisms living in the mucous membrane of the intestinal tract is restored.
- Cholesterol deposits and toxins are removed from the organ. The blood and blood vessels are cleansed.
- The pain that occurs during constipation and then when trying to have a bowel movement goes away.
- The condition of internal organs is improving. In particular, liver function is normalized, the skin looks better, joint mobility is restored, blood vessels are cleansed, and blood supply improves.
- The method helps to get rid of extra pounds. After use, the body is cleansed of toxins and overeating is prevented.
- Kills parasites, neutralizes the effects of fungi and viral microorganisms.
- Reduces the risk of developing colon cancer.
Doctors recommend using the plant to cleanse the body for people with symptoms of Crohn's disease.
Contraindications
Despite the numerous positive properties, in some conditions and diseases it is better to abstain from this method. Cleansing is contraindicated in the following cases:
- during pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- for stones in the gall bladder and kidneys;
- in case of exacerbations of diseases of the pancreas and liver;
- if allergic to this product;
- in case of intestinal obstruction ;
- in childhood;
- with inflammation of the cornea of the eye;
- for diseases of the female reproductive system - endometritis , uterine fibroids , polycystic ovary syndrome, mastopathy .
Those who suffer from allergies to egg whites and nuts should practice this method with caution. Those who experience flatulence and diarrhea should be very careful with this cleansing.
It is important to understand that the use of flax for cleaning is only an auxiliary method, and serious diseases cannot be treated with it.
Another important piece of advice is to strictly follow the recipe and the dosage indicated in it. The seeds contain toxic substances that, when accumulated in the body, can provoke the development of negative effects. To avoid this, it is important to maintain the dosage and be sure to properly store flax fruits, preventing them from getting exposed to moisture and direct sunlight.
It is imperative that you consult with a specialist before starting cleaning.
How to carry out the cleansing process?
Before you begin the cleaning procedure itself, you need to prepare for this process.
Preparation
Before starting cleansing for 2 weeks, as well as directly during the cleansing period, you must follow these rules:
- Try to completely exclude sweets, baked goods, alcohol, and coffee from your menu.
- Eat as many fruits, vegetables and greens as possible, and in general it is better to stick to a vegetarian menu.
- It is also better not to eat fast food and smoked foods, and replace fried foods with stewed ones.
- The menu should include a lot of fermented milk products.
- You should walk in the fresh air as often as possible and give up bad habits.
- Every day you need to drink at least one and a half liters of clean water.
By following these recommendations, you can not only make cleansing more effective, but also significantly lose weight.
Cleansing
It is very important not to interrupt the process, but to complete the entire course - only in this case the cleaning will be as effective as possible.
You can take flax seeds either ground or in their natural form. However, it is important to grind them immediately before consumption, since under the influence of light and air, oxidation processes begin in such a mass. Infusions and decoctions are prepared from the seeds; they are also added to various dishes - baked goods, porridges, etc.
The first three days you should consume small doses of seeds. Their number needs to be increased gradually. But during the day you should not take more than three tablespoons of the product.
Simple recipe
The simplest cleaning method is to eat grains along with different dishes. A small amount of flax can be added to baked goods, jelly, salads, porridges, etc. You can start with 1 tbsp. l. per day, gradually increasing its amount. But you should not consume more than three tablespoons of flax per day.
With kefir
Kefir contains many bacteria that help improve the digestion process. By consuming this drink, you can effectively improve digestion and restore intestinal microflora. Therefore, cleansing using flax and kefir helps improve the functions of the gastrointestinal tract, cleanse the body of excess feces, and get rid of fungal infections and worms.
This cleansing is carried out for three weeks. In the first week you need to grind 1 tsp. seeds and mix them with 100 g of kefir. This mixture is taken instead of breakfast on an empty stomach.
During the second week, you need to act in exactly the same way, only instead of one teaspoon of crushed flax you should add two. Accordingly, in the third week the dose of seeds increases to three spoons. The amount of kefir remains the same for three weeks.
Throughout the year you can take 4 such courses - one for each season.
Infusion
You need to take one tablespoon of seeds, rinse them well and pour a glass of boiling water. The product should infuse for several hours. Before going to bed, you should drink water and eat the seeds. You need to drink this remedy every day for three weeks. Using this method, you can not only cleanse the body, but also lose weight. There should be a break of at least one month between cleaning courses.
Decoction
To prepare the decoction, 1 tsp. pour a glass of boiling water over the grains and cook over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the broth has cooled, you need to strain it and drink it before bed. You need to drink the decoction for ten days. This cleansing will help lower cholesterol levels and improve immunity.
A decoction can also be made from ground grains. For this, 2 tbsp. l. ground seeds are poured into two glasses of boiling water and boiled for about half an hour. This decoction should be drunk before meals, half a glass 4 times a day.
With sunflower oil
This recipe is indicated for restoring normal digestion, supporting the liver and kidneys. 100 g of crushed grains should be poured with 250 ml of sunflower oil. Leave for a week in a dark place. Drink 1 tbsp. l one hour before meals three times a day. You need to practice this cleansing for 10 days.
With pineapple
Another recipe involves the use of pineapple, which produces antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and laxative effects. Pineapple effectively cleanses the intestines. In addition, the product with it will have a pleasant taste.
To carry out such cleaning, you need five tbsp. l. Soak the seeds in water overnight. You need to start your morning with two pieces of pineapple. The seeds should be washed, pour three glasses of water and grind everything in a blender. Divide the mixture into three parts and consume them after an equal amount of time. The product is stored in the refrigerator and warmed up slightly before use. This cleaning lasts a week. Every day you need to drink at least two liters of water. In the process of such gentle cleaning, you can also lose a little weight.
With fennel
To prepare this product you need to pour one tsp. flax, fennel and coriander with a glass of boiling water, strain after half an hour and drink completely. This remedy should be drunk twice a day for two weeks.
Special Recommendations
Light and dark seeds are available for sale. The second option is more accessible, but in terms of the principle of operation they are not particularly different. The maximum daily dose does not exceed 25% of a glass, a single dose is limited to 2 tsp. A more precise dosage depends on the form and method of use of flaxseeds.
The flax cleaning mechanism is simple. The seeds swell and move smoothly through the intestines, absorbing (collecting) all harmful substances. As a result, they remove waste and toxins naturally through feces. The mucus secreted by flax softens the procedure and protects the intestinal walls from irritation and damage.
To increase the effectiveness of intestinal cleansing, it is necessary not only to systematically eat the prepared mixture, but also to follow general recommendations on nutrition and organization of the daily routine. The main requirements are as follows:
- exclude fatty foods from the menu;
- The following thermal methods of food processing are acceptable: stewing, baking, boiling;
- refusal of semi-finished products, fast food, smoked meats, canned food;
- replacing sugar with honey;
- baked goods, confectionery and flour products are prohibited;
- During the cleansing period, you must give up alcohol.
It is important to drink a lot during the day. The daily fluid intake is 2 liters of pure still water. You can also drink herbal teas, infusions, compotes, juices.
Flax seeds for colon cleansing: reviews and results
According to reviews, cleansing with flax grains is a fairly popular method among those who practice periodic cleansing. However, such procedures must be carried out correctly and in no case should they be abused. For example, sometimes those who want to lose weight drink infusions or decoctions for months, which ultimately negatively affects their health. It is also very important to take into account all contraindications. A balanced diet, which must be followed before and immediately during cleansing, significantly increases the effect.
But if a person follows the advice given in the recipe, this method can improve well-being and lose a few kilograms. Those who cleansed with flax felt overall lightness, they were able to get rid of constipation and improve bowel function.
As a plus, we can note the fact that you can buy seeds at any pharmacy, and they are cheap. It is best to buy the grains and grind them yourself if the recipe calls for flour.
Some recipes also include flaxseed oil. However, it is generally accepted that natural seeds are more useful, since high temperatures during oil production lead to oxidation of the product.
But in general, this method can be considered effective and relatively safe. The main thing is to consult a specialist before practicing it. This advice is especially important for those who suffer from chronic illnesses.
Use in cooking
The seeds are used as an additive to vegetable salads, meat or fish dishes, desserts and smoothies. In cooking, derivatives made from flaxseeds are no less revered. From them, vegetable oil is obtained (mainly by cold pressing) and flaxseed flour.
Flaxseed oil
This product is enriched with unsaturated acids, the concentration of which is twice that of fish oil [7]. Nutritionists recommend dressing salads with this oil or drinking it in the morning on an empty stomach (only in case of direct need for the body). Culinary experts love flaxseed oil for its delicate aroma, which combines subtle nutty notes mixed with natural plant aromas. Unfortunately, you cannot fry with flaxseed oil, since when decomposed, unsaturated fatty acids form carcinogenic compounds. It also begins to smoke, burn and makes the dish unfit for consumption.
Flaxseed flour
Flax is a virtually waste-free product. Flour is obtained from seeds immediately after pressing the oil. The taste of flour is practically no different from traditional wheat or oatmeal, but the functional range is radically different. Flaxseed flour can absorb large amounts of moisture. If you are used to adding 1-2 tablespoons of water and oil to wheat flour, then for flaxseed flour this amount will have to be doubled. Experienced cooks focus on the consistency of the dough and vary the ingredients according to how they feel. If you are not sure of your own sense of proportion, then strictly follow the stated recipe.
Another important property of flour is its long shelf life. Flaxseed flour increases the shelf life of baked goods, so manufacturers often include it in the composition so that the product can last longer at the point of sale without compromising taste, quality and appearance.