That's Fit

Each week, we'll be naming a Super Food and offering unique ways to use those Super Foods that pack nutritional power. After all, you are what you eat -- make it count!

Flax is an ancient crop (it was used as a food source in 3000 BC!) but there's nothing outdated about it's benefits. Perhaps you've heard of the many, many benefits of flax? If not, well, I'll tell you right now: It's really good for you.

How good? Here's just a short list of ailments it can help ward off: Cholesterol, cancer, constipation, diabetes, heart disease, menopause, inflammation and depression. And it's no surprise -- Flax contains all-important omega-3 fatty acids, as well as a special thing called lignans. Lignans act like antioxidants and have anti-tumor properties. And that's not all: Flax has fiber, which, in addition to helping you lower your cholesterol and risk of heart disease, helps keep you ... well, regular.

Still not convinced? The benefits of flax seed are listed here, and here, and here, and here. Oh, and here too.

So the question is not why should you eat flax? but rather, how do you eat flax? You can pick up flax seeds in the bulk section of your grocery store, or if you're interested in picking up organic flax, head to your local natural foods store. And what do you do when you get it? Here are some suggestions:

• Sprinkle it on your cereal or salad, or add it to your smoothie. You'll hardly taste it.
  
• Substitute flax for eggs in your favourite recipes. One tablespoon of flax seed and three tablespoons of water is the equivalent of one egg. Or just add it to any recipe where you'd welcome a nuttier flavour.
  
• Switch out regular oils with flax seed oil.
  

But that's just the beginning -- there are plenty of great recipes out there using Flax. Check out these great sites for some guidance and inspiration:

• Flax Council of Canada
• Low Carb Flax Recipes
• 770 Flax Recipes from Recipezaar