Ground flaxseed is considered healthier than whole flaxseeds because your intestines are more able to extract its nutrients that it would from whole seeds. Among other things, it provides a lot of fiber, so is used by some to treat constipation. It is important to note that as of 2010, there has been no research to back up this claim. Ground flaxseed is generally safe, although it does sometimes cause some side effects. Do not consume raw or unripe flaxseed, as it may be poisonous.
Benefits
Fiber is the indigestible part of plant foods, and it helps keep bowels regular. The type of fiber in flaxseed appears to bind with cholesterol in the intestine and prevent its absorption, which may help lower cholesterol levels. The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed may help lower cholesterol levels as well. And they may have additional beneficial effects, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-blood clotting and blood pressure lowering properties. Flaxseed also may be helpful for relieving mild symptoms of menopause and for improving kidney function in lupus patients; more research is needed to be sure. The Cleveland Clinic recommends consuming about 2 to 3 tbsp. per day of ground flaxseed.
Digestive Side Effects
Adding ground flaxseed to your diet could cause digestive side effects such as increased number of bowel movements, diarrhea or, in contrast, constipation, bloating, gas, stomach pain and nausea. The more flaxseed you consume, the more likely are these side effects, so stick to the recommended daily amount. Consult your doctor before consuming flaxseed if you have a narrowing in the esophagus or elsewhere in the digestive tract, an intestinal obstruction, or any other digestive system problems. Flaxseed expands when it comes in contact with fluid, which can be dangerous for people with these disorders.
Blood-Thinning Effects
Flaxseed has blood-thinning effects that could increase the risk of bleeding if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking other medications or herbs that slow clotting. Flaxseed may interfere with medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, clopidogrel and warfarin, and herbs like angelica, clove, garlic, ginger and ginkgo. Consult your doctor if you think flaxseed may interfere with your blood clotting abilities.
Blood Sugar Effects
Flaxseed also may reduce blood sugar levels, thereby increasing the effects of diabetes medicine that regulates blood sugar. If you use any of these medications and eat flaxseed, monitor your blood sugar levels closely to prevent hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. If you notice your blood sugar dropping too low, consult with your doctor about a change in medication dosage.
Hormonal Effects
Because flaxseed may act like the female hormone estrogen, consuming amounts larger than recommended might worsen hormone-sensitive conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids and cancer of the breast, uterus and ovaries. Although no reliable evidence is available about the effects of ingesting flaxseed while pregnant or breastfeeding, it might not be safe for the baby because of possible hormonal effects.
Triglyceride Effects
People with high triglycerides are discouraged from consuming partially defatted flaxseed, as it may increase triglyceride levels. Defatted flaxseed has a lower content of a type of omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid. Some men choose partially defatted flaxseed because alpha-linolenic acid is associated with prostate cancer risk. The problem is, the risk is only connected with alpha-linolenic acid from animal products, not from plant sources, according to MedlinePlus.
Allergic Reaction
Rarely, people have experienced an allergic reaction to flaxseed. If you have allergies, particularly to any plants, talk to your personal physician before using ground flaxseed in your diet. Signs of an allergic reaction include a rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, throat closing, skin discoloration and facial or mouth swelling. Any of these signs requires immediate emergency medical attention.
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