FLAXSEED: PREVENTING CANCER THROUGH INCREASED OMEGA 3 CONTENT IN DIET

Flaxseed helps prevent the formation of cancerous tumors due to its high content of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 is known for its synthesis of strong anti-inflammatory molecules that impede the creation of conditions favourable to tumour development and growth.

LINOLENIC ACID

Flaxseed is the best known plant source of linolenic acid, the omega 3 fatty acid known to produce EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), two anti-inflammatory substances. In fact, two tablespoons of flaxseed supplies 140% of the recommended daily amount of omega 3. In order to receive the full benefit of omega 3s; however, you must reduce your dietary intake of omega 6s. Omega 6s are present in most processed foods, causing an imbalance between omega 3s and omega 6s that is greatly in favor of omega 6. Unfortunately, the uneven ratio between these fatty acids causes a tendency towards inflammation and the development of cancerous tumors such as those found in prostrate and other cancers.

LIGNANS

Lignans are a source of anti-cancer phytoestrogens also found in flaxseed. These phytoestrogens behave similarly to estrogen in the body, only without the harmful effects of high levels of this hormone. By attaching themselves to the cells of breast tissue, they can reduce the harmful effects caused by excessively high levels of estrogen, thus reducing the likelihood of breast cancer.

FOR BEST BENEFITS FROM FLAXSEED

Flax seeds must be ground to increase absorption of omega 3 fatty acids, as well as to favour the transformation of lignans into active phytoestrogens. When flax seeds are not ground, they provide little more than fiber for the body. Since omega 3 is unstable, and difficult to preserve, flax seeds should not be purchased already ground; instead, you should grind them yourself. Prepared foods containing flaxseed should only be stored in your refrigerator for two weeks or less in order to receive the full benefits of this product.

WATCH YOUR OMEGA 6 DIETARY INTAKE

Obtaining the full benefits of increased omega 3 in your diet, also includes limiting the amount of omega 6 fatty acid you consume, since these essential fatty acids compete for control of the body. An imbalanced overload of omega 6s, as is common in the Western/American diet, produces inflammation, a condition highly related to cancer and tumor development. Omega 6s are present in processed foods, as well as in red meat and dairy products that are not organically grown.

Select organic meats and dairy products, and reduce your consumption of red meat in general to three or less servings weekly. Replace red meat with oily fish such as pink salmon, and include at least three servings weekly. Omega 3s are also present in nuts, which are excellent sources of proteins. Purchase whole fruits and vegetables in your grocery store, as opposed to pre-made processed meals containing large amounts of omega 6s. A good rule of thumb is that if it doesn't grow out of the ground, you should limit it in your diet.

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