Take the Flax-Seed Challenge!

Did you know you can get the heart-healthy benefits of omega 3s from a little seed? If you haven't tried flax seeds yet, what are you waiting for? Besides omega 3s, flax seeds offer a host of other nutrients, including fiber, zinc, iron, and calcium! The key is to grind the flax seeds first so you get the full benefits; otherwise the hard shell is difficult to break down, and it may pass through your digestive system without being digested. You can use a coffee grinder or food processor to grind the seeds, or you can buy them already ground at the supermarket. (The shelf life is longer if you grind them yourself.)

It's simple to enrich your diet with the hearty, slightly nutty flavor of flax. Breakfast is a great time to work it in. Sprinkle a teaspoon or two over yogurt, mix it into your breakfast cereal, or blend it into a smoothie. If you're a baker, add flax seeds to muffin batter or knead them into bread dough. You can also try using flax seeds to thicken soups or add a bit of texture to a casserole dish.

Take my flax-seed challenge and fit flax into your diet every single day in the coming week. C'mon, it's not that hard — and just to prove it, I'll do it too!