It may also protect against breast cancer and diabetes
A superfood available for less than 6p per serving from Aldi may slash cholesterol levels and lower high blood pressure. A 2015 study found that regular consumption over 12 months “lowers cholesterol in healthy subjects with mild biomarkers of cardiovascular disease (CVD)”.
It also found that consuming flaxseed lowers cholesterol in patients with peripheral artery disease. Canadian researchers also said “flaxseed has provided beneficial cardiovascular effects in a number of animal studies”, and that these include improving vascular reactivity, and reducing the risk of plaque developing in arteries.
Flaxseed is a good source of polyunsaturated fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids in particular, which are naturally anti-inflammatory. As well as having the potential to lower cholesterol, a 2023 study found that supplementation with flaxseed “significantly reduced blood pressure levels”, meaning flaxseed could therefore be used as an effective blood pressure supplement alongside medication.
Flaxseed has also been found to help reduce blood glucose in those with diabetes, and may offer significant protection against breast cancer. The superfood is also high in fibre which means it may help reduce appetite and therefore help promote weight loss.
Currently, you can get 200g of milled flaxseed for £1.69 from Aldi – less than 6p per 7g tablespoon. To enjoy flaxseed, Aldi suggests blending into a smoothie, mixing into porridge or cereal, or sprinkling on top of yoghurt.