Flaxseeds, which are sometimes called linseeds, are the seeds of the flax plant, Linum usitatissimum. Supporters of flaxseeds claim they provide many health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol and treating diabetes, but little evidence is available to support these uses, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Flaxseeds are generally safe and well-tolerated, but may cause mild side effects in certain cases. Always consult your doctor before taking any alternative medicine such as flaxseed.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Flaxseed contains high levels of soluble fiber and has well-known laxative properties. Greatly increasing your intake of soluble fiber may increase the number of bowel movements you have each day, advises MedlinePlus. Consuming large amounts of flaxseed may also lead to nausea, gas, bloating, abdominal pain and possibly diarrhea. Avoid taking flaxseed with other laxatives or stool softeners, recommends the American Cancer Society.
Intestinal Blockage
Because flaxseed contains high levels of fiber, it is often used to treat constipation. However, the high levels of fiber can actually make constipation worse if flaxseeds are not consumed with plenty of water. In rare cases, consuming large amounts of flaxseeds without plenty of water can lead to severe cases of intestinal blockage. To avoid causing constipation or intestinal blockage, you should consume ten times as much water with each dose of flaxseed, according to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Tennessee.
Unripe Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are often sold roasted. Raw or unripe flaxseeds may be toxic and should be avoided. Eating raw or unripe flaxseeds may increase levels of cyanide in your bloodstream, warns Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Tennessee. Immature seed pods of flaxseed may also be poisonous, and should be avoided, reports the American Cancer Society.
Disease Interactions
People with certain health conditions may experience harmful side effects from taking flaxseed. Consult your doctor before taking flaxseed if you have any of the following health conditions: diabetes, bleeding disorders, narrowed esophagus, inflamed intestines, bowel obstruction, high blood triglyceride levels or hormone-sensitive conditions or cancers.
Drug Interactions
Several medications can potentially cause harmful interactions when taken at the same time as flaxseeds, including anticoagulant medicines, diabetes drugs, estrogens and antibiotics. The high levels of fiber in flaxseed may also reduce the absorption of any oral medication taken at the same time. Avoid taking flaxseed within two hours of other medications, advises MedlinePlus.
Member Comments