Welcome to our series: The Superpowers of Superfoods. Flaxseed, also known as linseed, is a popular “superfood.” A superfood isn't a scientific classification but is a commonly used term that basically means that a food has high nutrient density. While we do think that the fruits, vegetables, and grains known as superfoods really do pack a punch, we’ll leave the superpowers to your kiddo’s imagination.
From ancient Egypt to grocery store shelves
Flax is one of the oldest cultivated plants. Archaeologists have found evidence dating as far back as ancient Babylon as early as 3,000 BC. Ancient Egyptians used it as a food and when practicing medicine.
This versatile plant is used as a natural fiber for cloth, with evidence pointing back to 11th century Ireland. The plant was first introduced into the United States as a textile fiber for clothing, not as a food.
Flaxseeds are harvested from an annual herb that has purple-blue flowers. The plants can grow to be up to 4 feet tall! To harvest the seeds, it requires pulling up plant and drying before removing the seeds, like harvesting wheat.
In the modern-day United States, we now see flaxseed all over the shelves in a store, on loaves of bread, in snack bars, as an oil form as a supplement, and as a bag of whole or ground seeds for you to take home.
The nutrition facts of flaxseed
Flaxseed has a very high concentration of omega-3 fatty acid, especially for a plant-based option. Omega-3 is a vital fatty acid that our bodies can’t make on their own, so we need to get it all through food. Omega-3 is needed to support whole body health, from brain function to bone health. All important for growing kids.
Another major benefit of flaxseed is the fiber content. Just one tablespoon of flaxseed contains an average of almost 3 grams of fiber! Fiber is a key macronutrient to support healthy digestive systems and can help relieve constipation.
Flaxseed is packed with other nutritional benefits that are important for growing bodies, including protein, thiamine, copper, and other micronutrients. This little seed is a powerhouse of nutrients, no wonder humans have been using it for thousands of years!
Sprout 💙 Flaxseed
Want to add flaxseed to your family’s diet? Check out these tasty blueberry flax muffins, add some ground or whole flaxseed to a bowl of warm oatmeal or as a topping yogurt, or this tasty homemade granola recipe.
Looking for a more convenient solution? Sprout Organics has your back! All the pouches in our smoothie collection includes organic flaxseed, plus a whole serving of fruit. Choose from yogurt or dairy-free coconut milk, both will have your little one loving the creamy, smooth texture and delicious flavors. Shop smoothies now!
As always, if you aren’t sure if your child is ready for these foods, consult with your doctor to know if/what foods your kid can eat.
