Flaxseed, as you might guess, is the seed of the flax plant. It is a great source of fiber and alpha-linolenic acid, an
omega-3 fatty acid. It may provide a variety of different health benefits. People consume flaxseed in several different ways, including as baked goods, as a powder (mixed in with drinks or foods), eaten plain, or mixed into cereals or other foods.
Flaxseed is not exactly the same as
flaxseed oil, which does not contain some of the active components of flaxseed. The information in this article does not apply to flaxseed oil.
Flaxseed contains several different components that may provide health benefits, including:
Flaxseed seems to be an effective laxative. It is also probably effective for
high cholesterol. There is not enough evidence to tell if flaxseed is effective for other uses
(see Does Flaxseed Work? for more information).
Flaxseed Dosing Information
Flaxseed can be taken in a variety of ways, and many people like to take their flaxseed through baked goods (such as flaxseed breads), although some people are concerned that the heat of baking may affect some of the active components in flaxseed. The best flaxseed dosage has not yet been established.
Flaxseed can cause several side effects, such as:
- Bloating and gas
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Constipation (if you don't take it with plenty of water).
(Click Flaxseed Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Flaxseed
Normal doses of flaxseed are probably safe for most people, although high doses could potentially cause problems for some people. Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to flaxseed. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking flaxseed if you have:
- Diabetes
- A bleeding disorder
- Cancer (or a history of cancer)
- A bowel obstruction (blockage) or esophageal stricture (a narrowing of the esophagus)
- High triglycerides
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click Flaxseed Safety for more information, including any available Flaxseed warnings and precautions.)
What If I Take a Flaxseed Overdose?
It is not known exactly what to expect from a flaxseed overdose (or even if a flaxseed overdose is possible), but it is reasonable to assume that taking too much flaxseed may cause the usual side effects of flaxseed (but they may perhaps occur more severely). Theoretically, a flaxseed overdose might increase the risk of bleeding, including dangerous internal bleeding.
Flaxseed: Storage Methods
Refer to the label of your individual flaxseed product for information on how to best store flaxseed. It is often recommend that flaxseed be stored in the fridge or freezer, to keep it from becoming rancid.
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print