What is the difference between the traditional brown flax seeds and the golden Omega flaxseed grown by MAGCO Dakota Flax?

The brown flaxseeds have existed for literally thousands of years. In recent years, the brown seeds have been used for industrial purposes, particularly paints while the byproduct is often used in animal food products. The Omega variety of flax resulted from a joint venture between North Dakota State University and South Dakota State University to create a highly edible form of flax with a satisfying flavor for human consumption. Michael Bennett concluded in his book "The Flaxseed Revolution" that the yellow Omega seed is the best flaxseed for full health benefits. Plus, the nutty flavor of Omega gold flax is generally considered an improvement over the traditional brown flax. Omega flax is only the second variety that is gold in color - the other yellow seed has only a fraction of the important Omega-3 or ALA oils. It's important to know which flaxseeds you are consuming - all flax is not alike!

What are lignans?

Lignans are phytoestrogens (phyto = plant) that may have a role in preventing hormonally related cancers of the breast and prostate. According to "The Flaxseed Revolution", flaxseed is the richest source of the anti-cancer compounds called lignans. Dr. Lilian Thompson of the University of Toronto has undertaken clinical research on the lignans in flaxseed as anti-cancer agents for breast, colon and perhaps other cancers.

What should I remember about grinding and storing my flaxseeds?

The flaxseeds can be stored virtually indefinitely in their full seed form. Once the seeds have been ground, the flax meal should be stored in an airtight container either in the refrigerator, if it will be used in just a matter of days, or it can be stored in the freezer for several months. Often, it is more convenient to grind up a larger quantity of flax in your coffee grinder and store it in the freezer. It can be used straight from the freezer.

How can I use the MAGCO Dakota Flax™ ?

Flax can be incorporated into your diet in a number of ways:

• Smoothies or other healthy juices: Experiment with adding ground flax to your favorite morning juice or try one of the many smoothie recipes with a flax addition.
• Sprinkle over cereal or yogurt
• Baking or cooking: Because of its high oil content, flaxseed can be used to replace the oil or shortening specified in a recipe. If a recipe calls for 1/3 cup of oil, replace with 1 cup of ground flaxseed - a 3:1 substitution ratio. As an alternative, the flour specified in the recipe can be reduced by 25% and replaced with ground flaxseed. Or you can just have fun with adapting your own recipes by adding whole or ground flaxseeds!

When the recipe refers to ½ cup, is this before grinding or after? How much flax should I eat each day?

Typically the reference in the recipe is to the quantity of ground flax. However, the conversion of whole seeds to ground flax needs to be taken into account in determining how much to grind - assuming no waste or extras! One quarter cup of whole flaxseeds converts into just under ½ cup or 7 tablespoons of ground flax meal. In other words, not quite double the original quantity. You should aim to incorporate roughly 1/8 to ¼ cup of ground flax into your daily diet, at least several times a week. You may need to work up to this level!