My hairdresser told me how one of her clients got fuller hair in 3 months.
This client of hers had thin hair and an exposed scalp. She often used hair extensions to make the hair look thicker and fuller.
Then one fine day she showed up for a haircut and her hair wasn’t thin.
But it looked healthier and thicker without the extensions.
How did this happen? The salon was all weird, what did you do? Did you get a hair transplant or something? Or plasma therapy?
No, said the customer. The only fancy thing he said he does is take a tablespoon of flaxseed. That’s it, no other changes. And her hair grew thick and strong.
Are you wondering if flaxseed has any benefit in promoting hair growth… lets find out…
3 Benefits of flaxseed for hair growth
Flaxseeds are cute little brown or golden colored seeds. They have earned their reputation high content healthy fatty acids. Especially if you’re a vegetarian and don’t eat fish, flaxseeds are one of the richest plant sources of omega-3s.
So how does omega-3 benefit your hair and other reasons why you should eat flaxseed?
Flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids
Now, omega-3s are in high demand in the health food world. And that’s because omega-3s reduce inflammation – which can cause a number of diseases and more contribute in hair loss.
Flaxseeds contain a type of omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which has anti-inflammatory properties. And so it can have a beneficial effect on hair growth.
Additionally, if you have a dry, flaky scalp, ALA can improve hydration and reduce irritation and redness.
Flaxseeds balance hormones
Specifically, all plants contain bioactive compounds called lignans. But flax seeds I have 100 times more lignans than other foods.
Lignans are fascinating. They have one dual role in our body.
They act as powerful antioxidants. And antioxidants, as you may know, play a vital role in getting rid of harmful molecules called free radicals that can damage hair follicles and affect hair growth.
In addition, lignans help balance the hormone estrogen. So when there is too much estrogen circulating in the body, it acts as an estrogen blocker, reducing estrogen dominance. Too much estrogen can cause irregular periods, PMS, weight gain, hair loss, etc.
Conversely, if estrogen levels are low, especially in postmenopausal women, flaxseed can naturally increase their estrogen levels. And thus help with hot flashes, weight loss, as well as keeping hair and skin glowing. Lignans are very good.
Flaxseeds are a source of micronutrients
Linseeds contain Vitamin E, Bs, as well as magnesium, iron and zinc. All of these provide nourishment to the hair follicles and encourage stronger and healthier new growth.
Flaxseeds also provide a good amount of fiber that supports gut health. Also, more fiber helps you feel full and satiated so you don’t constantly reach for snacks.
How to eat flaxseed (and how not to)
It’s easy to chew on seeds like sesame, sunflower or pumpkin. But you can’t eat flaxseed in a similar way. This is because flaxseeds have a hard shell and are difficult to chew. So when eaten whole, it’s likely to pass through the digestive system undigested, meaning you’ll miss out on the benefits.
So the best way to eat them is to grind them first and then use them in various things:
1. Add ground flaxseeds to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt.
2. Put flax seeds in homemade bread, cakes, muffins and rolls.
3. You can also put flax seeds in stews, soup, sandwiches, salads, etc.
Get creative! Flaxseeds have a neutral taste, so they will not change the taste of the dish you are putting.
How much flaxseed to eat?
There is no optimal dose as such. It is recommended to take 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed per day.
Buy linseed:
You can buy ground or milled flaxseed, but they can be oxidized. So it’s better to buy whole flaxseeds and grind them yourself using a nut and spice grinder. Store ground flaxseeds in an airtight jar in a cupboard, away from direct sunlight.
Who should not eat flaxseed?
Flaxseeds are generally safe to eat, but here are a few things to consider before taking them:
1. Flaxseed mimics the effects of estrogen, so if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your healthcare provider about its use. Also, if you are on hormone therapy or have hormone problems, talk to your doctor before taking it.
2. I say it again and again, if you are new to food, try it in small amounts and see how you react. It is possible that you are allergic to flaxseeds and eating them can make you feel worse. It can cause bloating, nausea, skin rash, etc.
Let’s summarize
Flaxseeds are tiny brown or golden colored seeds. They are packed with a variety of nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, vitamin E and Bs.
Flaxseeds help promote hair growth by reducing inflammation and nourishing hair follicles.
In addition, flaxseeds have a balancing effect on the hormone estrogen, the lack or excess of which can affect hair health.
Include ground flaxseeds in your smoothies, soups, bread and stews.
Are you getting flaxseed in your diet? Have you seen any benefits? I would love to hear them, please share in the comment box below…
