My hairdresser told me how one of her clients grew fuller hair in 3 months.
This client of hers had thin hair and a visible scalp. She often used hair extensions to make the hair appear thicker and fuller.
Then one fine day, she turned up for a haircut, and her hair was not thin.
But it looked healthier and denser sans the extensions.
How did that happen? The hairdresser was all curious, what did you do? Did you get a hair transplant or something? Or plasma therapy?
Nope, said the client. The only fancy thing she said she is doing is taking a tablespoon of flaxseeds. That’s it, no other changes. And her hair grew dense and strong.
Are you wondering if there’s any merit in flaxseeds to promote hair growth…let find out…
3 Benefits of Flaxseeds for Hair Growth
Flaxseeds are cute little seeds with brown or golden colour. They have earned reputations for their high content of healthy fatty acids. Especially if you are a vegetarian and do not eat fish, flaxseeds are one of the richest plant sources of omega-3.
So how does omega-3 benefit hair, and other reasons you should eat flaxseeds?
Flaxseeds are High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Now, omega-3 in the healthy eating world is highly sought after. And that’s because omega-3 reduces inflammation – which can cause a number of diseases and even contribute to hair loss.
Flaxseeds contain a type of omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which has anti-inflammatory properties. And thereby it can have a beneficial effect on hair growth.
What’s more, if you have a dry, flaky scalp, ALA can improve hydration and reduce irritation and redness.
Flaxseeds are Hormone Balancing
Notably, all plants contain bioactive compounds called lignans. But flaxseeds have 100 times more lignans than other foods.
Lignans are fascinating. They have a dual role in our bodies.
They act as potent 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.
Besides, lignans help to balance the hormone estrogen. So when there’s too much estrogen circulating in the body, it works as an estrogen blocker, reducing estrogen dominance. Too much estrogen can cause irregular periods, PMS, weight gain, hair loss, etc.
Conversely, if the estrogen levels are low, especially in post-menopausal women, flaxseeds can naturally raise their estrogen levels. And thus help with hot flashes, weight loss, as well as keeping the hair and skin glowing. Lignans are pretty cool.
Flaxseeds are a Source of Micronutrients
Flaxseeds 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 provides a good amount of fiber which supports gut health. Also, more fiber helps you feel full and satiated, so you don’t reach out for snacks constantly.
How to Eat Flaxseeds (and How Not To)
It’s easy to munch on seeds like sesame, sunflower or pumpkin. But you can’t eat flaxseeds in a similar way. That’s because flaxseeds have a tough shell and can be hard to chew. So when eaten whole, it is likely to pass through the digestive system undigested, which means you will miss the benefits.
So best way to eat them is to grind them first and then use them in various things:
1. Add ground flaxseeds to your smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt.
2. Put flaxseeds into homemade bread, cakes, muffins and rolls.
3. You can also put flaxseeds in stews, soup, sandwiches, salads etc.
Get creative! Flaxseeds have a neutral taste, so they won’t alter the flavour of the dish you put in.
How much flaxseeds to eat?
There’s no optimum dose as such. Taking 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds per day is suggested.
Buying flaxseeds:
You can buy ground or milled flaxseeds, but they can get oxidised. So it’s best to buy whole flaxseeds and grind them yourself using a nut and spice grinder. Store the ground flaxseeds in an airtight jar in a cupboard, away from direct sunlight.
Who Should Not Eat Flaxseeds?
Flaxseeds are generally safe to eat, but here are a few things to consider before taking them:
1. Flaxseeds mimic the effects of estrogen, so if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your healthcare provider about using it. Also, if you are on hormone therapy or have hormonal issues, talk to your doctor before taking it.
2. I say this again and again, if you are new to food, try it in small quantities and see how you react. It’s possible that you may be allergic to flaxseeds, and eating them can make you feel worse. It may cause bloating, nausea, skin rash, etc.
Let’s Summarise
Flaxseeds are tiny seeds with brown or golden colour. 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 .
Moreover, flaxseeds have a balancing effect on the hormone estrogen, whose lack or excess can affect the health of hair.
Include ground flaxseeds in your smoothies, soups, bread and stews.
Do you take flaxseeds in your diet? Have you seen any benefits. I would love to hear them, please share in the comment box below…
