The 10 Side Effects of Flaxseed
The abundance of phytochemicals and lignans are known to be beneficial for everyone, especially women. Knowing the effects of flaxseed will help you decide the right amount to include in your diet. So, check out The 10 Flaxseed Side Effects:
May Induce Loose Stools: The presence of a high amount of Fiber in Flaxseed gives it a laxative property. When used in excessive amounts, this can actually trigger abdominal discomfort by increasing the frequency and count of your bowel movements.
You may even experience Diarrhea . If left untreated, this condition can lead to complicated health problems such as ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome. People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and Diverticulitis should never consume flaxseed .
Delays Coagulation: Studies suggest that excessive use of flaxseed can impair blood clotting. Coagulation takes place, but the time will be quite long. It is also known to trigger problems such as vomiting blood and blood in the stool.
May Lead to Intestinal Blockage: Researchers point out that using flaxseed in large doses or with much less fluid can clog the intestines and/or the esophagus. People who have already experienced such health problems are advised to stay away from flaxseeds . People suffering from scleroderma should also avoid these Omega-3 rich foodsas they can result in intense constipation. This, in turn, causes an obstruction in the bowel movement, aggravating the problem.
May Worse Inflammatory Problem: The Omega-3 present in these brown seeds has the potential to protect you from plaque-bound arteries, alleviating chronic arterial inflammation. However, studies suggest something that contradicts this. According to a study published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, these seeds are not as effective at relieving inflammation. Worse still, if used above the permitted levels there is a chance of worsening inflammation.
Increases the Risk of Macular Degeneration: Studies suggest that high consumption of flaxseed can put an increased risk of macular degeneration. This is due to the ingestion of alpha-linoleic acid in excessive amounts.
May Make You Prone to Cancer: Studies suggest that overuse of these seeds can put women at a high risk of breast cancer . Men are also at risk of prostate cancer .
May Lead to Allergic Reactions: Several studies conducted in the laboratory suggest that people can develop allergic reactions to these brown colored seeds. While this is rare, studies report cases of life-threatening allergic reactions such as extensive obstructed breathing, dips in blood pressure levels and anaphylaxis. Other common flaxseed allergy and intolerance reactions include nausea , vomiting and abdominal pain.
Women, Beware If You’re Trying to Conceive: Flaxseeds areknown to have a detrimental effect on women’s hormones. It mimics the functioning of the female hormone ‘ Estrogen ‘. Women, who use this dietary supplement regularly, notice some variations in their menstrual cycles.
Studies suggest that these women are more likely to experience hormonal issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, uterine cancer and Ovarian Cancer , leading to infertility.
Unsafe During Pregnancy: Studies have proven that the hormonal variant property of these supplements can induce the menstrual cycle, affecting both mother and baby in a harmful way.
Other Side Effects of Using Flaxseed: There are some other negative impacts when consuming flaxseeds . Take a look just below:
- Studies suggest that using flaxseed can raise your blood sugar level. So, if you are diabetic, stay away from Omega-3 supplements .
- These seeds have the power to reduce clotting. In this way, it can actually increase the danger of excessive bleeding.
- People using blood thinning medications or those suffering from bleeding disorders should stay away from flaxseeds as studies suggest a negative interaction between the two.