Grind it fresh
Whole flax seeds can pass through the body without being fully digested, so grind them before eating. Ground alsi adds fibre to support regular digestion.
Ground flax goes stale quickly, which is why we sell alsi whole. Grind a spoonful or two at a time in a spice grinder, and keep any extra in a closed jar in the fridge for a few days.
NCCIH advises against eating raw or unripe flaxseed. Many desi kitchens lightly dry-roast alsi in a pan for 2–3 minutes before grinding, which also gives it a nuttier taste. It is a good habit to keep.
Easy ways to use it
Stir 1 tablespoon of freshly ground alsi into dahi or oats.
Add a spoonful to roti or paratha atta. Recipes are in our desi breakfast ideas.
Sprinkle over a fruit bowl or blend into a smoothie.
Drink enough water through the day when you add more fibre to your food.
Plant omega-3
Flax contains ALA, a plant omega-3: about 2.35 g in a tablespoon of whole seed (10.3 g) and about 1.6 g in a tablespoon of ground flax (7 g), per USDA. It is not the same as the omega-3 in fish (EPA and DHA). Read more in flax seeds (alsi) benefits.
