Flaxseed
(Ground Whole Flaxseed in Avian, Equine, and Equine Plus)
Found in: Avian | Canine | Canine Plus | Equine | Equine Plus | Feline | Wellness Blend
- Flax is the richest vegetable source of omega 3 essential fatty acids (alpha linolenic acid).
- Flax is the richest source of lignans, a class of phytonutrients that are powerful antioxidants and may provide protection from hormonal based cancer.
- It is an exceptional source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble.
- This remarkable grain contains 27 known phytonutrients, which include the lignans, flavonoids, coumarins, and phenolic acids.
- From the omega 3 essential fatty acids, the body produces series 3 prostaglandins. These act at the cellular level in a host of disease-fighting ways that include anti-clotting actions in the blood stream, anti-inflammatory responses that prevent or alleviate such auto-immune diseases as arthritis, psoriasis, and asthma. They are also involved in mechanisms of transport and metabolism of both cholesterol and triglycerides that result in a strong lowering effect on both of these cardiovascular factors.
General: Omega oils, "Good Fats," are omega 3 (alphalinolenic acid) and omega 6 (linoleic acid), essential fatty acids that together:
- Form the membrane of the billions of cells in the body
- Regulate response to pain, inflammation, and swelling
- Make up a very large part of the brain's active tissues
- Prevent blood cells from conglomerating
- Are necessary for absorption of fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K)
- Maintain proper kidney function and fluid balance
A high fiber diet protects against heart disease and has the remarkable function of supporting a healthy digestive and cardiovascular system.
Soluble fiber (pectins and gums) bind cholesterol and some other by-products in the bowel as it passes through the body. That way, cholesterol absorption into the bloodstream is reduced (helps to lower serum cholesterol). Soluble fiber also slows digestion, which helps control blood glucose.
Insoluble fiber (cellulose, hemicellulose) primarily functions to increase moisture, which aids regularity, and supports a healthy digestive system and bowel regularity.
Parts used: High stability, Canadian brown, premium whole flaxseeds.
(Note: Many of these health benefits may seem to relate to people more than our companion animals. Not true! Our pets, and animals in general, share common physiology and biochemical processes that are benefited by these many overall health factors.)
