Flaxseed Weight Loss Recipes for Slimming Smoothies, Desserts & Meals

An Introduction to Flaxseed

Flaxseed, also known as linseed, is a small brown seed that comes from the flax plant. It has become popular as a health food in recent years due to its impressive nutrient profile. Flaxseed is high in fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which provide a number of health benefits. When incorporated into recipes and meals, flaxseed can be a tasty addition that also aids in weight management.

Nutritional Makeup of Flaxseed

Some of the key nutrients found in flaxseed include:

• Fiber - Both soluble and insoluble, which is important for digestive and heart health
• Omega-3 fatty acids - Contains the plant-based ALA omega-3 that helps reduce inflammation
• Lignans - Antioxidants that can help lower the risk of cancer and other diseases
• Protein - A good plant-based source of protein for vegans and vegetarians
• Vitamin B1, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium and iron

With its stellar nutrition facts, its no wonder flaxseed is considered a superfood when it comes to overall wellness.

Flaxseed Benefits for Weight Loss

Incorporating flaxseed into your diet can specifically help with weight loss efforts in several ways:

• Keeps you feeling fuller for longer to curb appetite and reduce calorie intake
• Provides gut-healthy fiber to improve digestion and metabolism
• Essential fatty acids help regulate hormones that control hunger and fat storage
• Adds nutrients but very few calories to calorie-controlled diet

Delicious Flaxseed Recipes for Weight Loss

From smoothies to salads, breakfasts to desserts, there are endless healthy and tasty ways to use flaxseed to help reach your weight loss goals. Here are some delicious flaxseed recipes to try:

Smoothies and Drinks

Flaxseed blends up perfectly in smoothies, shakes, and juices. Try these refreshing flaxseed drink recipes.

• Strawberry Banana Flaxseed Smoothie - Blend strawberries, banana, flaxseed, Greek yogurt and almond milk for a protein-rich, waist-slimming smoothie.
• Green Tea Golden Smoothie - Whip up spinach, mango, avocado, green tea, flaxseed, ginger and ice for an antioxidant-packed blend.
• Skinny Chai Flaxseed Shake - Combine almond milk, flaxseed, chia seeds, cinnamon, ginger and black tea then blend with ice.

Flaxseed Breakfasts

Give your morning meal a flaxseed makeover with these filling and nutritious breakfast ideas.

• Banana Flaxseed Pancakes - Mix 2 overripe bananas, 2 eggs, flax meal, baking powder, cinnamon and vanilla extract to make around 12 small, hearty pancakes.
• Veggie Flaxseed Frittata - Make this protein-rich baked egg dish with veggies like spinach, tomato and onion stirred together with flax seeds and egg.
• Berry Coconut Flaxseed Oatmeal - Simmer steel cut oats in coconut milk then stir in fresh berries, flaked coconut, ground flaxseeds, walnuts and honey.

Flaxseed Lunches

Pack more staying power into your lunch by incorporating flaxseed into salads, wraps, soups and more.

• Mason Jar Chopped Salad - Layer lettuce, grilled chicken, boiled egg, avocado, beans, grain and dressing in a jar then top with whole flaxseeds just before eating.
• Kale Avocado Turkey Wrap - Spread mashed avocado on a whole grain wrap then pile on roasted turkey, baby kale, olive oil, lemon juice and flaxseeds for crunch.
• Minestrone Soup with Flaxseed - Make a hearty veggie and bean soup then sprinkle each bowl with a tablespoon of toasted flax meal before serving.

Flaxseed Dinners

Enjoy flax-infused dinners like these for balanced, waistline-friendly portion control.

• Cajun Shrimp with Flaxseed Rice - Make brown rice ahead then toast it in olive oil and mix in flaxseed and Cajun shrimp for an easy weeknight meal.
• Chicken Veggie Stir Fry with Toasted Flaxseed - Cook sliced chicken breast in toasted sesame oil with broccoli, carrots, onion and bell pepper then serve over brown rice with toasted flax seeds on top.
• Flaxseed Crusted Salmon - Coat salmon fillets with a mixture of Dijon mustard, lemon juice and ground flaxseed then bake until flaky for a heart-healthy entree.

Flaxseed Desserts and Snacks

Curb cravings the healthy way with these delectable flaxseed-filled snacks and sweet treats.

• No Bake Vanilla Yogurt Bites - Mix together plain Greek yogurt, ground flax, vanilla extract and a little honey or pure maple syrup then scoop into small molds and freeze for high protein snacks.
• Chia Seed Superfood Bars - Bind assorted nuts, seeds, dried fruit, peanut butter, honey and ground flaxseed together into hearty homemade protein bars for on-the-go snacks.
• Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding - Layer chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla and sliced fresh strawberries to create a plant-based, antioxidant-rich dessert perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Get creative and add flaxseeds or flaxseed meal to a variety of your familys favorite recipes to boost nutrition and aid in weight loss success.

Tips for Using Flaxseed

Keep these simple tips in mind to enjoy flaxseed safely and effectively:

• Grind flaxseeds to release the nutrients and make them easier to digest
• Drink plenty of water when eating flaxseed to avoid digestive upset
• Refrigerate ground flaxseed in an airtight container for maximum freshness
• Add flaxseed to recipes raw or baked at 300F or less to retain benefits
• Buy organic non-GMO flaxseed when possible

Flaxseed offers valuable nutritional support when trying to slim down. Include it every day in creative combinations to reap the rewards of improved health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.