FLAXCLUB of Spain - Flaxseed Information

Two months ago, I met with a woman who was in need of some flaxseed for her skin. She had such skin damage that she couldn't even wear a light cotton blouse, as it irritated her skin. She had to stay out of the sun and she couldn't go near computers or anything electronic.

Last week, I met with the same woman and the difference was so noticable. Her skin was so much better and so was her mood. She was so happy about the results of the flaxseed that her personality was also improved. She was flaxified!

The appearance of your skin is a product of genetic heritage and environmental upbringing. Skin structure consists of three main layers. First, there is the epidermis, the outermost layer; the dermis, the middle or structural layer; and the innermost subcuticular or fatty layer. These layers interact to produce what is seen as lines and wrinkles, pigment changes, and the overall texture and complexion of the skin.

The epidermis is made up of live and dead cells called keratinocytes. These cells have protective qualities that are very instrumental in retaining moisture and providing a barrier function to the skin. The outermost layer, the stratum corneum, consists of dead cells that are continually sloughed off, aiding in the process of cellular regeneration. The cells in the epidermis have a lipid or fatty component. This lipid quality has been identified by researchers as an important aspect of skin hydration and moisture retention.

Experts say that most types of skin damage and accelerated aging is caused by free radicals. These are oxygen ions that float in the air and steal electrons from healthy collagen molecules in our skin. Ultraviolet radiation or energy - interacts with the cells of the skin causing a chain reaction of solar damage. The cumulative result is sun damage, wrinkles, dilated pores, irregular pigmentation and textural changes in the skin. Air and water pollution, toxins in food and the environment, even the gases that synthetic clothing and furniture emit, turn on free radicals.

Free radical damage can be reduced by antioxidants that limit or reverse - to some extent - the damage that free radicals create. Antioxidants help to “turn off” the molecular aging processes that free radicals turn on.

Flaxseed hulls are packed with a compound called secoisolariciresinol diglucoside - SDG lignan. The SDG lignan is a potent antioxidant.

The SDG lignan also has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties. Plus it has been shown to enhance immune system functioning, and is a phytoestrogen (mimics the hormone estrogen). In addition, these lignans have shown such extraordinary potential that they have been studied by the National Cancer Institute for their cancer preventative properties.

Flaxseed meat is full of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to healthy skin, but unfortunately most people are seriously deficient.

Omega-3 fats help to normalize skin lipids and prevent dehydration in the cells. This keeps skin cells strong and full of moisture, which can help to decrease the appearance of fine lines. Fatty acid deficiency can manifest in a variety of ways, but skin problems such as eczema, thick patches of skin, and cracked heels are common. Plus, omega-3 fats may have an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to calm irritated skin, giving you a clear, smooth complexion.