Flaxseed oil has minimal side effects in small doses, but larger doses can cause diarrhea and allergic reactions. It may increase the risk of prostate cancer in men. Studies show little benefit, and some purported benefits are inconclusive. Pregnant women and those with bleeding disorders should avoid it.
Flaxseed oil side effects are minimal when the supplement is taken in small doses, although there are potentially harmful side effects when taken in larger doses. Typical side effects of flaxseed include diarrhea and allergic reactions. Some studies suggest that flaxseed oil may increase the risk of prostate cancer in men.
Coming from the Linum usitatissimum plant, flaxseed is native to the Mediterranean region and India. The oil, extracted from flaxseed, is commonly used as a health supplement, although it is also incorporated into many foods. Promoters of flaxseed oil often claim that it has various health benefits, including helping with digestion, reducing inflammation, controlling cholesterol, and protecting against rheumatoid arthritis.
However, many scientific studies show little to no benefit from taking flaxseed oil. Other purported health benefits of flaxseed oil include a reduction in the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a decrease in the risk of heart disease, a reduction in the risk of breast cancer, and a decrease in fatty acids in the blood. There is conclusive evidence to suggest that flaxseed oil does not reduce blood fatty acids, but the jury is still out on the other benefits as studies are inconclusive.
One of the most common side effects of flaxseed oil is diarrhea, particularly when the oil is consumed in large amounts. Most of the side effects of flaxseed oil occur when people with particular conditions take flaxseed oil. For example, the side effects of flaxseed oil for pregnant women can be potentially dangerous. Taking flaxseed oil during the second and third trimesters may increase the risk of preterm labor. For this reason, pregnant women are advised to avoid flaxseed oil.
Flaxseed oil may also increase the risk of bleeding, particularly with patients with bleeding disorders or patients who have recently had surgery. Some experts recommend that flaxseed oil not be taken two weeks before or after surgery. It is best to avoid the supplement while breastfeeding because the side effects of the oil for nursing mothers are unknown.
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