Flaxseeds contain a substance called alpha-linolenic acid, a precursor to Omega-3 fatty acids. Because of this, many people take it…especially those who don’t like to use animal products or can’t stand the “fish burps.”
Pro: Studies indicate that the supplement lowers total cholesterol, especially LDL (bad) cholesterol. This is beneficial to everyone, particularly those wrestling with coronary artery disease and high cholesterol.
Con: It does not raise HDL (good) cholesterol, nor does it help reduce triglycerides. Both of these are important considerations should you be debating between flaxseeds and fish oil for cholesterol reduction.
Pro: Some diabetics may find it helpful in reducing a component of hemoglobin related to average blood sugar levels over a three month period of time.
Con: There is no evidence that it lowers fasting blood sugar levels, helps with insulin or lowers total blood fats in diabetics. It may also interfere with medications used to treat diabetes.
Pro: Women dealing with perimenopause and menopause may find some benefits from flaxseeds. It may have a weak, estrogen type affect, which helps relieve the symptoms.
Con: Because of that affect, women who have or are at risk for hormone related cancers may need to avoid using it. It could increase that risk.
Pro: The seeds are a good source of dietary fiber. We need that to keep the digestive tract healthy and reduce absorption of fats and cholesterol.
Con: Only one human study has been done on flaxseeds when it comes to constipation. It may have a laxative affect, but it’s not clear. If you have a current round of constipation, you may want to consider another approach.
Flaxseeds and Bowl Obstruction: Read the instructions on your product carefully and follow them. If you take a large amount of the seeds with little to no water, you may develop an obstruction in your bowels. This is a serious medical problem, and it is life threatening.
Flaxseed and Prostate Cancer: While some studies indicate it may help with prostate problems, beware the alpha-linolenic acid. Five human studies have been done, linking that acid with the development of prostate cancer. Some flaxseed oil supplements have cut down the amount of the acid in their product, but it still could be a cause for problems.
One final note: Flaxseeds have to be either pressed or ground to be of use. The seed is far t0o hard for our molars and it doesn’t dissolve in stomach acid. If you eat the seeds whole, they’ll just go right through, with no benefits.
Like all supplements, you should talk to your doctor and your pharmacist before taking flaxseed supplements. They will help you avoid side effects and drug/herb interactions.