Flaxseed
Flaxseed, also called linseed, is the seed of the flax plant, Linum usitatissimum. It supplies fiber, lignans and the plant omega-3 fat alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Also listed as Flaxseed Oil, Flax Seed, Organic Flaxseed Oil, Flaxseed Powder
Does it help constipation?
EMA recognizes linseed medicines for habitual constipation. Its assessment of mild stomach or bowel discomfort rests on traditional use, a weaker evidence basis. 1
Evidence supports the seed as a stool-softening treatment; the assessment concerns linseed medicines. 1
How much might cholesterol change?
A review of 62 randomized trials involving 3,772 participants found average LDL reductions of about 4.2 mg/dL. Total cholesterol and triglycerides also fell, while HDL did not change. 2
The average lipid changes were modest across different flaxseed interventions. This analysis measured blood lipids, not proof of fewer heart attacks. 2
What about blood pressure?
Across 33 trials involving 2,427 adults, average blood pressure fell by about 3.2/2.6 mmHg. Results varied substantially between studies. 3
A possible modest benefit, with considerable uncertainty about the result an individual will see. 3
Can every product deliver the same result?
The lipid studies included different flaxseed interventions, and the blood-pressure trials differed markedly. Their pooled results do not establish that every seed, oil, or extract product produces the same benefit. 2 3
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Cardiovascular2 effects
Essential Health1 effect
Hair & Skin1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Longevity1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Gut Health1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Women's Hormones1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Other effects2 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
All studies
10 publications are linked to Flaxseed, newest first.
Sources
- Lini semen European Medicines Agency