What are the pros and cons of flaxseed consumption?

Flaxseeds, sometimes called linseeds, are small, brown, tan or golden-colored seeds. They are a great source of dietary fiber; minerals like manganese, thiamine and magnesium; and plant-based protein. Flax is one of the richest sources of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, called alpha-linolenic acid (or ALA), in the world. (1)Another unique fact about flaxseeds is that they are the No. 1 source of lignans in the human diets; flaxseeds contain about seven times as many lignans as the closest runner-up, sesame seeds. Top 10 Benefits of Flaxseed

Benefits of Flax Seeds:
  1. High in Fiber but Low in Carbs
  2. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
  3. Helps Make Skin and Hair Hairy
  4. Helps Lower Cholesterol
  5. Gluten-Free
  6. High in Antioxidants (Lignans)
  7. Supports Digestive Health
  8. May Help Prevent Cancer
  9. May Help with Weight Loss
  10. Helps Decrease Menopausal and Hormonal Imbalance Symptoms
Doctors and nutritionists are recommending flaxseeds as a dietary supplement. Numerous studies vouch that they can help lower cholesterol, aid weight loss, and even lower the risk of cancer. They can also help keep your skin, nail, and hair healthy.
However they come with some side effects :
One likely effect is on the digestive system. Eating flaxseeds can have gastrointestinal side effects and can significantly increase the number of bowel movements you have in a day. This means multiple trips to the bathroom to alleviate bloating, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, and the like. There are two reasons why things could go a bit off track with flaxseeds, especially when you overdo them.
The phytoestrogenic nature of flaxseeds can have a downside. It’s often a mixed bag for some women – flaxseeds can help treat hormonal imbalances and ease menopausal difficulties like hot flashes on one side but they can also significantly alter the menstrual cycle on the other. The estrogen content can even interfere with sexual development and fertility if taken in excess.
If you are prone to allergies, especially related to cereals or grains, check for any possible allergic reaction to flaxseeds before you include them in your diet.
Pregnancy is a time to exercise extra caution about what you eat and don’t eat. Even seemingly harmless natural foods can cause an untoward reaction; so it’s best to check with your doctor if are veering off your regular diet.
We know that flaxseeds are high in fiber and tend to block the digestive passage in a way. They can also reduce the absorption of other medicines or supplements and are best avoided when you are taking other oral medication.



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