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Our weekly news column bringing the most current, non-biased health
information to the consumer. |
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May 12, 2009 |
A Publication of QVHD |
Flax and Health
By: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH,
Deputy Director QVHD
Flax seed is one of the
new “miracle kids” on the nutrition block. Nutrition magazines and
producers of flax supplement products claim that persons who consume
flax on a regular basis may have a lower risk of developing a whole host
of diseases, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, dementia,
depression, high cholesterol, anxiety and strokes. (www.flaxusa.com)
WOW! What a seed!
While there are some studies to support these claims, there are also a
lot of studies that cast doubt on these claims. As with so many
supplements, there needs to be more research before conclusive
recommendations can be made. Unfortunately, many supplements that looked
promising and almost reached “miracle status” (soy comes to mind) end up
not living up the hopes.
The theory behind the claims made by flax seed producers it that flax
seed is high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fat, which the
body breaks down into DHA and EPA fats within our body. Sound familiar?
Think fish. They are the same fats that provide the heart-health
benefits attributed to fish oils, except that when it comes to the flax
supplements, it is not clear if the fatty acids in flax provide the same
heart-health benefits. In order to achieve meaningful amounts of DHA and
EPA from flax, you need to take very large amounts of it. (Consumer
Reports on Health, April 2009)
However, there may be other benefits from flax that are not found in
fish oils. For example, they may have a cancer-protective effect. Flax
is a rich source of lignans, which alter the way the body handles
estrogen. There is some research that suggests that flax may protect
against breast cancer. Flax may also help to alleviate symptoms
associated with menopause.
Here are some known facts about flaxseed and flaxseed oil:
• Flaxseed has long been used as a mild laxative. Because of the fiber
it contains, you should be sure to consume adequate amounts of water, or
it can worsen constipation.
• Flaxseed is the richest plant source of ALA , but ALA is also found in
canola and soybean oils which are less expensive. Walnuts are another
good source of ALA.
• Flaxseed may interfere with the absorption of some oral medications.
Be sure you know about whether this factor affects you. (Listing of
medications available from this office.)
• A review of many articles comes to the conclusion that you are better
off getting flaxseed and flaxseed oil from foods, not from supplements.
Flaxseed oil supplements may not contain lignans.
• Flaxseed must be ground for it to have its effect. The whole seed
passes through the body.
Overall, flaxseed seems to be well-tolerated by most, with few harmful
side effects. It may turn out that flaxseed can do wonders for heart
health and cancer protection, but more research is needed. For free
written information on flaxseed, district residents can call QVHD,
248-4528 or request on line, www.qvhd.org.
You can also visit www.nccam.nih/gov,
which is the National Institutes of Health National Site on
Complementary and Alternative Medicine. If you are a user of herbal
supplements to treat health issues, you will find this site very useful.
| An Ounce of Prevention is a
publication of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District, located at
1151 Hartford Turnpike, North Haven, CT 06473. Telephone:
248-4528. An Ounce of Prevention is
written by V. Deborah Culligan. The articles are published in the following local newspapers, The Advisor &
Beth-Wood News.
The content is provided as health education and
information to help you make health decisions. It is not intended to
be legal or medical advice, or substitute for recommendations made
by your health care provider. Address all comments to the district
office. |
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