Flaxseed

Flax seeds are rich in fiber and several vitamins and minerals, most notably thiamine magnesium, and phosphorous. However, their most outstanding benefit is their high concentration of polyunsaturated fats, which are important for a number of reasons. The three healthy fats found in flax seeds are Omega-3, Omega-9, and Omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for metabolism, reduce inflammation, protect against coronary disease, and seem to be useful in treating depression. Omega-9 fatty acids seem to reduce blood pressure and similarly are associated with beneficial cholesterol ratios. Omega-6 is an essential fatty acid, whose deficiency causes mild skin scaling and hair loss.