Flax seed and flax seed oil have been used for years for their health benefits, and recently have become more widely publicized. One question that arises is does it make a difference if you use ground flax seed or flax seed oil?

The answer is: It depends on why you use flax. Both contain essential omega-3 fatty acids which have been proven to lower LDL (also known as bad cholesterol levels.) Flax has also been shown to reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks. They also improve brain function, ease menopause symptoms, depression and other conditions.

Either flax seed or flax seed oil can be taken, but it is more beneficial to take ground Flax seed over the oil, because it also contains fiber and lignans that provide future health benefits. Dietary fiber kelps improve digestion, and ground flax seed is an excellent source. Not only that but lignans are phytochemicals that may prevent hormone-related cancers by binding estrogen receptors in the body.

Another benefit of using ground flax seed over flax seed oil is the storage. Flax seed oil is best kept in dark-colored packaging in cool places because light and oxygen can break it down. On the other hand, flax seed can be stored for two years or longer if it is out of direct sunlight. Ground flax seed should be stored in a refrigerator or freezer. Some flax seed is referred to as cold milled. This means the seed is ground without heating the mill blades. Cold milling preserves the seed's essential nutrients.

One unique way to store whole flax seed is in a pillow and used as aromatherapy. Make sure the flax seed is free of weeds and other debris and has not come into contact with chemicals.

There are many ways to supplement flax: Flax seed oil is excellent on salads. The ground flax seed works great in meatloaf or when added to baked goods. It also makes a tasty, nutty coating for chicken and fish.

You can use flax as an egg substitute by mixing 3tablespoons of water to 1tablespoon of ground flax. Keep in mind though that it makes the end result chewier than the traditional recipe.) Another baking tip is to substitute 3 tablespoons of ground flax seed for each tablespoon of fat or oils, like butter or margarine. (Note: It may brown more quickly than with butter though.)

After all is said and done flax oil provides excellent health benefits, but ground flax seed may get the edge in the daily diet. On a quality control note look for organic flax seed. The organic flax is grown and processed without irradiation, pesticides or other additives. It also permits you to get all the health benefits flax has to offer.

Supplementstogo offers a variety of flax products from NOW Foods to help supplement your lifestyle. They help to create an easy manner to add the benefits of flax to the daily diet.
Remember Flax is rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6, protein and fiber while being easily added to common foods, Try some NOW.