Sources of Flax Seed

Flax seed can be purchased at most supermarkets, bulk-food stores, and natural health
food stores or directly through many manufacturers. Some of the common forms of
flax seed that are available in markets today include:

Whole or ground flax seed

Because the outer hull of the flax seed is very difficult to digest, it is generally recommended that you grind or mill the whole flax seed to get the greatest nutritional benefit.

Flax seed can be ground with an inexpensive coffee grinder or purchased pre-ground or milled. Flax seed is known for the nutty flavor it adds to a variety of dishes. The seeds can be added to virtually any food

Some common uses of whole or ground flax seed include:

• Added to homemade baked good recipies. When baking, ground or milled flax seed can
  be substituted for fat at a ratio of 3 to 1.
• Sprinkled on yogurt, cereals, soups or salads.
• Added to trail mixes or blended into shakes.
• Added to pancake and waffle mixes.
• Sprinkled on top of yeast or quick breads for added crunch.

Whole flax seed can be stored at room temperature for up to one year - just grind
the flax as you need it. Store ground or milled flax at refrigerator temperatures
for up to 3 months.

Flax Seed Oil

Flax seed oil is a wonderful form of ALA however, in the oil form it lacks the additional
benefit of fiber, lignans and protein. For the benefits of ALA, add small amounts
(1-2 teaspoons) of flax seed oil to marinades, smoothies, and shakes or as a salad
dressing.

Other forms of flax seed

Here is a small list of some types of food products that contain flax:

• Cereals, ready-to-eat and cooked Breads Crackers Energy bars’
• Muffin, bread,
  pancake and waffle mixes Frozen waffles’
• Omega-3 enriched eggs (hens are fed
  the flaxmeal)
• Snack items like chips, trail mixes and muesli