Yes, you can add flaxseed to your coffee. In fact, it’s a convenient and easy way to get the nutritional benefits flaxseed has to offer.
Why Should You Add Flaxseed To Your Coffee?
Flaxseed is loaded with nutrients that can help improve your overall health. Adding it to something you consume every day is a simple way to give your body a healthy boost.
Flaxseed contains:
- thiamine
- copper
- magnesium
- selenium
- zinc
- selenium
- vitamin B6
- iron
- folate
- omega-3 fatty acids
- protein
- fiber
All of these vitamins and minerals work together and may help:
- fight cancer
- lower cholesterol
- improve heart function
- lower blood pressure
- reduce inflammation
- improve gut health
- promote weight loss
Besides all of the health benefits, flaxseed has a mild, nutty taste that can put a nice layer of flavor to your coffee and other foods and drinks.
How Can You Add Flaxseed To Your Coffee?
Since flaxseed in its natural form is coarse and gritty, you might think it won’t work for you in a cup of Joe. You’re right. If you just plop it in the coffee, chances are it will just clump up and sink to the bottom.
For the best results, the flaxseed should be ground before adding it to coffee. You can buy ground flaxseed, but it’s more expensive and can sometimes be hard to find.
Grinding it yourself will only take a few seconds. You can use a coffee grinder, spice grinder, food processor, blender, or a mortar and pestle.
Once you have the powder, mix it in with some water to form a paste. Stir it well to get rid of any lumps. Then stir it into your coffee until it dissolves. You can also sprinkle a bit on top of your hot drink.
Only grind up as much as you’re going to use in a few days. Ground flaxseed will only last about a week in the fridge. Some people don’t care for the taste, saying it is bitter, while others say it even tastes like fish.
Everyone has different taste buds. Thankfully, there are plenty of options to make your coffee flaxseed combo palatable and tasty.
Some ideas include:
- cinnamon
- honey
- vanilla
- chocolate syrup
- cocoa powder
- whipped cream
- maple syrup
- flavored non-dairy creamer
How Long Does Flaxseed Last?
This answer depends on whether the flaxseed is whole or ground. Whole flaxseed can last up to a year after the expiration date on the package. As long as it’s stored inside an airtight container, in a cool, dark place.
On the other hand, ground flaxseed will only last about a week after opening. This is because once the flaxseed is ground up, it releases omega oils that can cause the powder to deteriorate and become rancid.
You can extend the life of both types by placing them in the refrigerator after opening the package.
How Much Flaxseed Should You Consume Each Day?
There is no set amount for how much flaxseed you should have per day. However, 1-2 tablespoons a day will give you all of the recommended daily value of the vitamins and minerals that flaxseed offers.
What Can You Substitute For Flaxseed?
Maybe your store ran out of flaxseed or perhaps you’re just not a fan. Either way, the good news is that there are several tasty and nutritious substitutes you can try, including:
1. Psyllium Seeds
High in fiber, zinc, copper, potassium, and calcium, these seeds will give you the same nutty flavor as flax.
2. Hemp Seed
Used for ages as a thickener and flour substitute, hemp seeds are high in fiber, low in carbs, and have iron, zinc, copper, and tons of B vitamins.
3. Chia Seeds
These tasty seeds are high in fiber, calcium, iron, and zinc.
4. Wheat Germ
A classic health food, that can be added to cereal or eaten on its own. Wheat germ is high in fiber, iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
