As with almost any dietary supplement, flaxseed isn't without potential side effects. These side effects, however, aren't usually associated with muscle weakness. Taking flaxseed isn't likely the cause of this symptom, so talk to a doctor to help determine what may be causing your muscle weakness --- and whether or not you should even be taking flaxseed at all.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is used for a myriad of reasons. It's said to treat anything from colitis and gastritis to osteoporosis and ADHD. While flaxseed does have some health benefits, particularly when it comes to cholesterol, many of the claims surrounding its use are unsubstantiated. If you're taking flaxseed for anything other than improving your cholesterol levels or reducing your risk of heart disease, the use of this herb may be unnecessary.
Side Effects
The side effects for taking flaxseed are often gastrointestinal in nature. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, this herb is known to cause gas, constipation and increased bowel movements. It may also affect the absorption of certain medications and supplements, especially when taken at the same time. Flaxseed can interfere with the effects of blood thinners, insulin and supplemental hormones as well. No mention is made by any trusted medical institution that flaxseed causes muscle weakness. Your symptom is unrelated to this herb.
Use
To avoid any potential interaction with medications, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking flaxseed 1 hour before taking any prescription. If time doesn't permit, wait at least 2 hours to take a flaxseed supplement after a prescription drug. The same time frame holds true for taking flaxseed with other dietary supplements, as it can slow the absorption of nutrients.
Muscle Weakness
Instead of chalking up your weakness to a dietary supplement, consider talking to a doctor. A number of conditions can lead to muscle weakness, so proper diagnosis can ensure proper treatment. Metabolic conditions, neurologic disorders and muscular diseases can all lead to this particular symptom, explains the National Institutes of Health. Even food poisoning, insecticides and anemia can cause you to feel weak.
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