- Heart disease. Some studies suggest that alpha-linolenic acid, which is found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil, might benefit people with heart disease. Early research also suggests that flaxseed might help lower high blood pressure, which plays a role in heart disease.
- Cholesterol levels. Several studies show that taking flaxseed daily can reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad") cholesterol levels. However, other studies aren't as favorable.
- 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. Results have been mixed when it comes to use of flaxseed and the treatment of menopausal symptoms.
- Safety and side effects
- When taken in recommended amounts, flaxseed and flaxseed oil are generally safe to use. However, when taken in large amounts and with too little water, flaxseed can cause:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Avoid use of flaxseed and flaxseed oil during pregnancy.
- Occasionally, using flaxseed or flaxseed oil causes an allergic reaction.
- Don't eat raw or unripe flaxseeds.
- Because flaxseed oil might decrease blood clotting, stop using flaxseed oil two weeks before having elective surgery.
- The evidence is mixed as to whether flaxseed or flaxseed oil has any effect on the prostate or the risk of prostate cancer.
End
Exhibition Information: