When should flaxseed be avoided?

Hormone-sensitive cancers or conditions: Because flaxseed might act somewhat like the hormone estrogen, it might make hormone-sensitive conditions worse. Some of these conditions include breast and ovarian cancer. Until more is known, avoid taking large amounts of flaxseed if you have one of these conditions.

Is flaxseed bad for the prostate?

Some studies have suggested that flaxseed may have positive effects on the prostate. For instance, one study involving men diagnosed with prostate cancer found that those who took a flaxseed supplement and followed a low-fat diet saw their prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels decline.

What happens if you eat whole flaxseed?

Whole flaxseed may pass through your intestine undigested, which means you won’t get all the benefits. Flaxseed’s health benefits come from the fact that it’s high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as phytochemicals called lignans.

Is it safe for women with breast cancer to eat flaxseed?

Lignans are the nutrients that are at the center of the controversy regarding whether it is safe for women with breast cancer to eat flaxseeds. Phytoestrogens are found in a variety of foods, including soy, flaxseeds, other nuts and seeds, whole grains, and some vegetables and fruit.

Can I eat flaxseed on the AIP diet?

If you are following the AIP diet, you can’t eat flaxseed until you are ready to re-introduce it when your GI tract is rebuilt. #3 Gut bacteria – my research shows that for flaxseed to be active, it needs to be converted by a host of bacteria residing in the colon.

Do flax seeds need to be refrigerated?

Refrigerating whole seeds may extend their freshness. Whole seeds can be ground in a coffee grinder and then stored in an airtight container for several months. Because some unripe and raw flaxseed can have certain toxins, keep serving sizes to less than 50 grams (5 tablespoons of whole flaxseed) per day.