Flaxseed has many beneficial components, but some users experience side effects such as intestinal irritations and nutritional absorption problems. The recommendation for adults is one to two tablespoons per day, and it is important to consume plenty of water and talk to a doctor about any complementary medications or supplements.
Flaxseed is a popular nutritional supplement found in a wide variety of foods and health products. Flaxseed and flaxseed products have many beneficial components, including antioxidants, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, but some users experience side effects. Some of the more common side effects of flaxseed include intestinal irritations and nutritional absorption problems. These particular side effects usually occur when too much flaxseed is taken.
The ancient Babylonians first cultivated flax in 3000 B.C. C., and has been revered as a useful health supplement ever since. Flaxseed comes from a small annual plant that has blue flowers and thin leaves. Royal flaxseed is usually brown or golden in color. Flaxseed can be consumed as a whole intact seed or in the form of ground flour, powder, and oil.
Flaxseed has many components and nutritional characteristics. It contains protein, vitamin E, B vitamins, calcium, iron, sterols, potassium, antioxidants, and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an essential omega-3 fatty acid. When in the form of seeds, ground flour or powder, flaxseed contains daily requirements for soluble and insoluble fiber. The high fiber properties make flaxseed a common aid for constipation and digestive health problems.
The recommendation for adults is one to two tablespoons (14-28 g) of ground flaxseed per day. When taken in large amounts, flaxseed side effects can include worsened constipation or intestinal blockages. Sometimes the fiber in flax interferes with the body’s ability to absorb other oral medications that a person takes. Other side effects of flaxseed are diarrhea and hormonal imbalance.
There are several ways to prevent the most common side effects of flaxseed. For example, when consumed in the form of an oil, flaxseed has no dietary fiber. Some people grind flaxseeds to ensure they do not exceed daily requirements. Others keep a list of everything they eat in a day to keep track of how much flax they have actually eaten. This can be helpful because many common products, such as oatmeal, cereal, and muffins, already have flaxseed.
People should consume plenty of water when eating flax products or taking flax supplements. This can help prevent the flaxseed side effects of constipation and irritated bowels. Another way to avoid problems is for people to talk to their doctors about any and all complementary medications and supplements they take. Most health professionals will be able to see possible problems and risks of combining certain medications or vitamins with flaxseed.
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