photo credit: Crystl

The term 'superfood' is bandied around a lot. It's a vague concept, but you can be sure linseed (also known as flax seed) fits the category because it pack such a nutritional punch for cricketers.

Yep, the same stuff that makes the oil you rub on your bat is also a nutty flavoured source of omega 3 fats and fibre. Both of which can help with maintaining muscles while losing fat as part of a balanced diet.

It's said that Roman gladiators used to eat flax to keep themselves strong. Who are we to argue with those guys?

As you probably know from all the TV advertising, due to the modern western diet we don't get enough Omega 3. Linseeds can help to redress the balance when combined with other healthy sources like fish.

Health aside, linseeds also give a delicious nutty taste and are easy to add to your diet.

Grind up a couple of tablespoons and add them to milkshakes, cereal or yogurt. Even the least adventerous can make these chocolate peanut butter bars in 10 minutes. I usually have one of these a couple of hours before the game to keep my energy up.

It's also something that can be added to salads at lunch or tea during play.

You can pick up a box at most supermarkets these days. Alternatively you can buy the pre-ground seeds (flaxmeal) from health food shops or online.