Flaxseed and flaxseed oil
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil are rich sources of the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid. This healthy omega-3 fatty acid is beneficial for the heart, since it is high in soluble fiber and has lignans which contain phytoestrogens. These substances act similar to female hormones. Some studies have shown that phytoestrogens might have anti-cancer properties. Flaxseed oil does not have these properties.
Flaxseed can be used in whole, crushed, or powdered form. Flaxseed oil is available in liquid and capsule form.
People use flaxseed and flaxseed oil to lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well as to treat digestive issues and inflammatory diseases.
Evidence
There is some research that suggests using flaxseed and flaxseed oil for specific health conditions.
- Heart disease.Some studies suggest that alpha-linolenic acid (an omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil) might benefit people with heart disease. Early research also suggests that flaxseed might help lower blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
- Cholesterol levels.Some studies have shown that taking flaxseed daily can reduce cholesterol levels. However, other studies aren't as positive.
- Diabetes.Taking flaxseed might lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, the same results haven't been found for flaxseed oil.
- Menopausal symptoms.Some people believe that flaxseed can be helpful in treating menopausal symptoms, while other people don't think it does much good.
Our take
Generally safe
When used in combination with daily exercise and a low-cholesterol diet, flaxseed might help lower cholesterol levels. It might also be helpful for managing diabetes and reducing the risk of heart disease.
The safety and possible side effects of a medication.
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil are generally safe to use when taken in recommended amounts. However, if taken in large amounts or without enough water, they can cause problems.
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
Do not consume flaxseed or flaxseed oil during pregnancy.
Some people have an allergic reaction to using flaxseed or flaxseed oil occasionally.
Don't eat raw or unripe flaxseeds.
Before having elective surgery, avoid using flaxseed oil. This might decrease blood clotting.
Some people believe that flaxseed or flaxseed oil has an effect on the prostate, while others do not. The evidence is inconclusive.
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Herbs and supplements that inhibit blood clotting are called anticoagulants and anti-platelets.These types of drugs, herbs, and supplements slow blood clotting. Flaxseed oil may also slow blood clotting. It's possible that taking flaxseed oil might increase the risk of bleeding.
- Herbs and supplements that lower blood pressure are available.Taking flaxseed oil along with drugs, herbs and supplements that lower blood pressure might have the unintended side effect of lowering blood pressure too much.
- Diabetes drugs.Taking flaxseed might lower blood sugar levels too much if it is taken with diabetes medication, supplements containing herbs or ingredients with hypoglycemic potential, or on its own.
- Estrogens.Flaxseed might have an anti-estrogen effect. This means that it might decrease the effects of oral contraceptive drugs and estrogen replacement therapy.
- Oral drugs.Taking flaxseed might lessen the absorption of oral medications. Taking medications and flaxseed an hour or two apart may be best.