Recipe :: Flax Smoothie to start off your day!

Flaxseed is a great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

During my studies in human nutrition I learned about the many benefits of flaxseeds.  You can find ground or whole flaxseeds at your local grocery store.  I use them in my daughter’s favorite pancake mix (shhh, she’s none the wiser) and mix it in recipes when I can.  This morning we made a yummy smoothie using a couple of tablespoons of flaxseeds and my family is loving it.  In fact, they asked for seconds! Below is the super easy recipe to try out.

Flaxseeds are the richest plant source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 that may help protect against heart disease and arthritis.  They also help with digestion as they are packed with lignans.  In the digestive tract, bacteria convert lignans into estrogen-like molecules that move throughout the body and bind with estrogen receptors on cells. (Source: National Geographic Nature’s Best Remedies).  There is some indication that they could help with hormone-related cancers although more research is needed.  Why not add some to your diet and help keep you and your family healthy!

Note:  Flaxseed may interact with some prescription medications so please check with your doctor before adding it to your diet.

Flax Smoothie:

1 to 2 tablespoons of whole flaxseed – blend in a blender until ground

Add 1 ripe banana

1 cup berries (we used Sambazon Acai Berry unsweetened super fruit)

1 cup plain yogurt

1 tablespoon (raw) honey

Blend for about 30-45 seconds until well mixed

Enjoy!  Makes a great way to start your day or as an after-school/work snack!