Re: Flaxseed questions

Flax seed works very well for people with chronic constipation. Be sure and get golden flax seed, organic is usually best, but I have used non-organic from a source I trust with wonderful results. You can take flax seeds several ways. You can take them whole and just chew slightly to break the up. This gives you fiber, plus the mucilage and some of the Omega 3 rich oils.

You can grind flax seed and sprinkle it over foods. I like to mix fresh ground flax seeds (ground at home with a coffee grinder) with unsweetened apple sauce. It make a creamy pudding like meal that is tasty and satisfying. You can sprinkle the ground seeds on salads, veggies, almost anything for added fiber plus all the extras.

One of the best ways to use flax seeds for constipation is to soak the seeds to draw out the thick gel that acts like a lubricant. This is very helpful for those who tend to have hard dry bowel movements; or to use with a psyllium drink. To make this soak some flax seeds in warm water for several hours or overnight. Strain the seeds out of the thick fluid. To use take one or more tablespoons of the flax "goo" and stir into juice or water. You can swallow it alone, but the texture will be unpleasant for many. One of the best ways to take it is a morning tea made with very hot (but not boiling) water that has the juice of a fresh lemon squeezed in it and a tablespoon or two of flax goo. Daily use of this tea may help resolve constipation problems for many people. You can also mix the goo with yogurt or hot cereal to hide the rather slimy texture. Store the gel in the refrigerator and it will last a long time.

I would suggest you take a tablespoon or two of fresh ground flax seeds and a tablespoon or two of the flax seed gel every day. Adjust the dose to meet your needs.
Flax seeds can make a valuable addition to Colon Cleanses and for chronic constipation. Tweet