Lignans, a type of hormone found in plants, are abundant in flax seeds and have potential cancer-fighting properties. Flaxseed and lignans can be added to foods to increase their nutritional value. Other natural foods also contain lignans, but flax has exceptionally large amounts. Incorporating flax products into daily nutrition can provide a healthy dose of lignans.
Lignans are a type of hormone found in plants. Scientifically called phytoestrogens, lignans are especially abundant in the seeds of flax plants. Flaxseed and lignans are considered to have great health benefits for humans, because when flaxseed is digested, the lignans act in a similar way to the natural human hormone estrogen. The connection between flaxseed and lignans may have significant effects in preventing cancer in humans.
The flax plant, which produces flax seeds, is often processed into a nutritional supplement, which is available in several different forms. Whole and ground flaxseeds are widely available in health food or health food stores, and can be added to foods to increase their nutritional value. Flaxseed oil is associated with many health benefits, but unlike whole and ground versions of flax, it does not contain lignans.
The health connection between flaxseed and lignans stems from the potential cancer-fighting properties that lignans display in humans. Research has suggested that plant hormone lignans, found in very large amounts in flaxseed, mimic the actions of human hormones. The results of these hormonal actions may include a reduced risk for the development of certain types of cancer, including colon cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and skin cancer. Additionally, some research indicates that flaxseed and lignans might prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells from existing malignancies.
Other natural foods also contain lignans, although flax and lignans are more closely associated because flax has exceptionally large amounts of lignans compared to other sources. Other seeds, such as sesame and sunflower, and some nuts contain lignans. Vegetables like broccoli and kale, and fruits like apricots and strawberries contain moderate doses of lignans. However, just a small amount of flaxseed contains significantly more lignans than any of these foods combined.
There are many ways to take advantage of the healthy connection between flaxseed and lignans by incorporating flax products into your daily nutrition. Whole or ground flaxseed can be baked into muffins, breads, or mixed into granola. Flax products generally have a mild, somewhat nutty flavor that generally doesn’t distract too much from the tastes of other foods. Since flaxseed contains such high amounts of lignans, it is not necessary to eat large amounts at one time. A couple of tablespoons of flaxseed mixed into cereal or yogurt with breakfast is an easy way to start the day with a healthy dose of lignans.
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