Ground Flaxseed Substitutes

Fish and Fish Oils

• Naturally, you cannot directly substitute highly aromatic fish products for any recipe calling for flaxseed. However, fish oil also contains omega-3 fatty acid, which is found in flaxseed in high concentration. Omega-3 plays a role in brain functioning and growth as well as reducing the risk of heart disease. In addition, it may reduce inflammation problems and help to reduce risks of cancer or arthritis. Instead of ingesting omega-3 in vitamin supplements or ground flaxseed forms, use a small amount of fish oil when cooking savory dishes. Look for recipes that will work with fish flavor, such as vegetables, legumes and dishes inspired by the fish-centered Mediterranean diet. Instead of water or chicken stock, you can cook risotto and rices in fish stock for a meal that evokes a seafood-studded paella.

Whole Grains

• Whole grains offer high levels of dietary fiber, another valuable property of flaxseeds. While fiber, also known as "roughage," is not absorbed by the body, it does aid in intestinal health and bowel regularity. By eating whole grains, you can avoid digestive tract problems, such as hemorrhoids or diverticular disease of the colon. High fiber diets may also reduce the risks of colorectal cancers. In addition, dietary fiber has been linked to lower blood cholesterol levels, as it reduces the lipoproteins in the blood stream. It may also reduce blood pressure and tendency to inflammation, both factors contributing to improved heart health. A high fiber diet can also regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes, and aid in weight loss, giving a faster and longer-lasting feeling of "fullness."

Vegetables and Fruits

• If cooking a savory dish, substitute vegetables for flaxseed; if cooking something sweet, use fruits. Either way can contribute manganese to your diet, a nutrient found in flaxseed in high levels. You can also get manganese by eating mustard greens, kale, chard, romaine lettuce, collard greens, raspberries, pineapple or even maple syrup. Instead of adding flaxseed meal to your pancake or waffle recipe, simply top them with maple syrup and raspberries and pair them with a glass of pineapple juice. Manganese helps the body to absorb and use biotin, thiamin, ascorbic acid and choline and to synthesize fatty acids. Like dietary fiber, it also regulates blood sugar levels. Other benefits include improved thyroid gland functioning, nerve health and protection against free-radical damage.