Flax seeds, or linseeds, are derived from the flax plant and are a rich source of lignans and alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 essential fatty acid. They are available whole or crushed and can be mixed with water. They may be sprinkled on food such as porridge or cereal, too.
Flax seeds may be helpful for certain medical conditions, but the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine warns that flax seeds should not be taken at the same time as any conventional oral medications, as the fiber in the seeds may lower the body's ability to absorb those medications.
Lupus Nephritis
Lupus nephritis is an inflammation of the kidney, caused by systemic lupus erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune disorder.
In a study published in a 1995 issue of "Kidney International," the effect of flax seeds on patients with lupus nephritis was studied. The researchers found that flax seeds are well tolerated and 30g a day helped support renal function.
People with lupus nephritis should not take flax seed supplements without the advice and supervision of a qualified health care provider.
Constipation
The University of Maryland recommends 1 tbsp. of ground flax seeds 2 to 3 times a day to help ease constipation. The University explains that flax seeds are high in soluble fiber and a substance called mucilage; both these substances expand when they come into contact with water, thereby adding bulk to the stool and enhancing its movement through the gastrointestinal tract.
People suffering from constipation should talk to their doctor before taking any flax seed supplements.
Menopause
In a study published in a 2002 issue of "Obstetrics and Gynecology," researchers found that 40g of crushed flax seeds taken every day for 4 months, was as effective as an oral estrogen-progesterone for improving mild menopausal symptoms. Flax seeds also helped lower glucose and insulin levels.
According to the University of Maryland, flax seeds may help menopausal symptoms as they contain lignans, which are considered phytoestrogens and mimic the action of the natural hormone estrogen.
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine also recommends flax seeds for hot flashes and breast pain. Women suffering from menopausal symptoms should consult their doctor before taking any flax seed supplements.
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and is caused when the body is not producing enough insulin, or cells cannot process the insulin that is produced. Insulin is essential for blood sugar balance.
In a study published in a 2007 issue of "Plos One," researchers studied the effect of flax seed-derived lignan supplements on people with type 2 diabetes. The authors found that 350mg of lignans a day for 12 weeks resulted in a significant improvement in blood sugar balance.
Diabetic patients should consult their doctor before taking any flax seed supplements.
References
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Flaxseed and Flaxseed oil
- "Kidney International": Flaxseed: a potential treatment for lupus nephritis; Clark WF, Parbtani A, Huff MW, et al: 1995.
- University of Maryland: Flaxseed
- "Obstetrics and Gynecology": Flaxseed dietary supplement versus hormone replacement therapy in hypercholesterolemic menopausal women: Lemay A, Dodin S, Kadri N, et al: 2002.
- "Plos One"; Effects of a flaxseed-derived lignan supplement in type 2 diabetic patients: a randomized, double-blind, cross-over trial; Pan A, Sun J, Chen Y, et al; 2007
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