Flaxseed Warnings

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Flaxseed

 

 

Flaxseed has been a traditional treatment in Mediterranean cultures for thousands of years. It's now popular in the U.S. for many different health conditions. Flaxseed oil is made from crushed flaxseed. It shares some -- but not all -- of flaxseed's health properties.

Flaxseed Uses

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil contain alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), which converts to omega-3 fatty acids in the body. While flaxseed hasn't yet been shown to improve heart disease risk, there's good evidence that flaxseed and flaxseed oil may lower cholesterol levels.

Flaxseed -- but not flaxseed oil -- may also help with menopausal symptoms. Research has shown that 40 grams per day may be similar to hormone therapy for improving mild menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. Flaxseed -- again, not flaxseed oil -- may also help constipation.

Flaxseed has also been shown to improve kidney function in people with lupus. If you have lupus -- or any other medical condition -- it's very important to talk with your doctor about any supplements you take.

Flaxseed is currently being studied for many other conditions, ranging from cancer to diabetes to osteoporosis. At this point, there is not enough evidence to support flaxseed for these conditions.

Flaxseed Dose & Instructions for Use

There is no set dose of flaxseed. In studies of people with high cholesterol, 40 to 50 grams of flaxseed per day has been used; 15 grams for improving kidney function in people with lupus; 40 grams for mild menopause symptoms. Flaxseed can be mixed with liquid or food, such as muffins or bread. Ask your doctor for advice.

Flaxseed Food Sources

While no other food sources contain flaxseed, flaxseed is itself sometimes added to foods. Ground flaxseed is sold as flour. Flaxseed oil might be added to salad dressing, although it should not be used for cooking.

Flaxseed Supplement Information

Flaxseed is sold in liquids, capsules, and powders. Flaxseed oil is also available in capsules and liquids. Like any supplement, keep flaxseed in a cool, dry place, away from humidity and direct sunlight. To make it last, flaxseed oil should be stored in the refrigerator.

Flaxseed Warnings

 

 

Side effects. At normal doses, flaxseed and flaxseed oil seem to be safe. Flaxseed -- and not flaxseed oil -- contains soluble fiber. It might cause diarrhea, cramping, gas, and bloating. High doses of flaxseed, especially when not taken with enough water, can cause constipation and even bowel obstruction. Interactions. If you take any medicines or other supplements regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using flaxseed. Flaxseed may block the normal absorption of medicines. So, always take medicines at least one hour before or two hours after using flaxseed. Flaxseed and flaxseed oil may also interact with drugs like blood thinners, NSAID painkillers, hormone treatments, and medicines for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. Avoid taking flaxseed or flaxseed oil with supplements like St. John's wort and valerian. Risks. Never eat raw or unripe flaxseed -- it could be poisonous. People who have diabetes, bipolar disorder, high triglycerides, bleeding disorders, or prostate cancer should talk to a doctor before using flaxseed or flaxseed oil. Anyone with digestive problems (like Crohn's disease, IBS, or colitis) and women with hormone sensitive diseases (like endometriosis, PCOS, breast cancer, and uterine cancer) should not use flaxseed.

Given the lack of evidence about its safety, flaxseed and flaxseed oil is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.