Flaxseed sales are rapidly growing – and one type of seed is rapidly emerging as the flax seed of preference. With increasing frequency, whole ground flaxseed is prescribed by doctors, touted by experts and used by consumers for a myriad of health benefits. Not only does flax rival fish for omega-3 fatty acid content, but whole ground flax seed is the best available source of anti-cancer and phytoestrogen compounds called lignans. And flax has something else fish doesn’t have at all: fiber – lots of it.* As the popularity of this little seed grows – spanning products from oils to bars to flax-fed chicken that produce high omega-3 eggs – consumer preference for one particular variety is also becoming more apparent.

In her book, The Wisdom of Menopause, released in March, Dr. Christiane Northrup promotes the use of whole, ground flaxseed for its anti-cancer and hormone-balancing properties, as well improving a variety ailments associated with the typical American diet lacking in omega-3 fatty acids. According to Northrup and others, ailments that may be improved by supplementing with whole ground flaxseed include heart disease, high choloesterol and high triglycerides, arthritis, PMS eczema, acne, diabetes, digestive disorders, and psoriasis.

Dr. Northrup notes in her book what consumers are discovering for themselves, that "the brown flax found in most health food stores… doesn’t taste very good." Dr. Northrup says, "I recommend buying golden flax grown in the northern Great Plains regions of North America." (p 186) This golden flax seed is more tender than the brown varieties. The flavor is milder, more reminiscent of ground nuts or sesame seeds. And, due to a higher mucilage content in the seed’s hull, it blends more easily into other foods and liquids. Northrup specifically recommends Dakota Flax Gold from Heintzman Farms in South Dakota. (p 549)

Orders for this variety of flaxseed can be placed by calling 1-888-333-5813, or visiting the farm’s web site at www.flaxgold.com.