Flax seed - Nutritious Ingredients - SuperTreats premium, healthy dog treats

Flax

Flax is the richest source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) in the North American diet. ALA is converted to omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to be heart-healthy and skin-healthy. Omega-3 fatty acids are also converted in the body into EPA and DHA, essential components for brain function. In fact, EPA and DHA are common components in today’s infant formulas to promote brain development in babies.

Health Benefits

Reduces cardiovascular risk. The omega-3 fatty acids and lignans have been shown to decrease inflammatory factors associated with arthrosclerosis by reducing the blood levels of cell adhesion molecules – the compounds that control the sticking of white blood cells to the lining of blood vessels . Flax has also been shown to lower blood cholesterol.

Improves immune function. ALA and lignans found in flax boost the immune system and may play a beneficial role in the prevention and management of chronic diseases in which inflammation plays a role – heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, cancer . It is speculated that they do this by blocking the release of pro-inflammatory agents such as cytokines.

May protect against age-related cognitive disorders. Studies have linked depression and memory loss to low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in human brains.