Duct tape. It can fix just about anything. Don’t want to be without it. And it’s the same with flax seeds. Whether you’re talking heart disease, depression, or diabetes, these conditions and many more can be treated safely and affordably with flax seeds (when combined with a diet full of whole foods and exercise).

We’ve talked about flax seed before. I’m talking about it again because I notice there’s some confusion around storing it. So here’s the scoop on proper flax seed storage. Then read on for why it’s the DUCT TAPE OF HEALTH!

So flax seed storage: The best way to store any type of seeds is in an airtight container in the refrigerator at a constant temperature. If you purchase it from large bins in a bulk foods department, be sure you shop somewhere that has a quick turnover of product (You may have to ask the manager about this). Seeds may be kept in a sealed container in the pantry away from heat sources (cool, dark & dry), but will enjoy a longer shelf life in the refrigerator or freezer (also in a tightly sealed dark container).

Flax meal should be purchased from the refrigerator section and then kept constantly refrigerated, or better yet frozen, once home. In either storage option, it is best to avoid clear containers or bags because light will increase the degradation process. Purchase in vacuum sealed packages whenever possible, because less exposure to oxygen is always best because of the unsaturated oils being very susceptible to oxidation.

Speaking of flax meal, though, it’s more economical to buy the seeds, which will last longer, and then grind them into meal with a coffee grinder or in a high powered blender (such as a Vitamix or Blendtec) as needed.

With storage explained, here are some powerful reasons why you just don’t want to be without your daily dose of flax seeds—the duct tape of health:

1. Flax Seeds Can Treat Heart Disease. It boils down to plaque building up in the arteries. But regularly include flax in your diet and its fatty acid, called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and you’re less likely to have a heart attack. Much research around this proves that eating foods rich in ALA seriously reduces heart attack risk. Scientists have found that flax seed reduces hypertension and internal inflammation, and promotes blood vessel health, making platelets less sticky.

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2. Flax Seeds Protect Against Depression and Anxiety. There’s conclusive proof showing that low levels of Omega 3 fatty acids lead to depression, and that supplementing with Omega 3 can improve mood, depression and anxiety. Well thank goodness for flax seeds—they’re HIGH in Omega 3. What a safe, effective, and non-intrusive alternative to Prozac!

But wait, there’s more. Flax seed is also rich in vitamin B6, an essential vitamin for making serotonin, a key mood regulator. Low levels of B6 are also considered a contributor to depression. So boost your mood and protect your mental health each day by adding some ground flax seed to your morning oatmeal, green smoothie, or cup of fruited yogurt.

3. Flax Seeds Can Treat Type-2 Diabetes. The bottom line with diabetes is inefficiency in metabolizing glucose. Normally, the body produces insulin to help turn glucose from food into energy. Thus, to prevent dangerous spikes in their blood sugar, people with diabetes need to be very careful about how much sugar they consume.

Once again, flax seed to the rescue. Research shows that taking ground flax seed every day has a positive effect on blood sugar levels in diabetics and even reduces insulin resistance. This is because flax seed is rich in fiber, so it helps slow down digestion (which keeps blood sugar from spiking) and this can improve type-2 diabetes.

However, let’s be real. We do need to understand that flax seed alone won’t cure anyone of disease. Simply adding flax seeds to an otherwise-bad diet isn’t going to magically cure any disease. As mentioned in the first paragraph of this article, there needs to be a consistent inclusion of a wide variety of plant-based whole foods in the diet. When that happens, flax seed can help you prevent and fight off all of these common health conditions. In this way, flax seeds really are the all-purpose “duct tape” of health!

If you aren’t already including flax seed in your diet, get some soon and start with this delicious treat—good and good for you!

CHOCOLATE PROTEIN BALLS

1 cup old fashioned rolled oats

1 cup old fashioned or freshly ground peanut butter (or almond or other nut butter)

½ cup raw honey

1 teaspoon vanilla

¼ cup chopped cacao bits

2 tablespoons flax seeds

2 tablespoons chia seeds

1 tablespoon oat flour

Unsweetened coconut for rolling, optional

Stir all ingredients together in a bowl until evenly mixed. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Scoop chilled mixture into balls; roll in unsweetened coconut, if desired. Keep covered and chilled until ready to serve.

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