Flaxseed Oil

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More info on flaxseed.

To your health,

M_M



You've got the beat. That is, your heart does. But if your heartbeat
is abnormal, there's an easy dietary change that may help keep the
beats in sync.

Thereisa German study that demonstrated how omega-3 fatty
acids from fish oil supplements may sharply reduce the risk of
arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) in patients who are prone to
this condition. Now a new study reveals another way to reduce the
risk of arrhythmias.



Arrhythmias can be triggered by a number of factors, including
diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, smoking,
drug and alcohol abuse, prescription drugs and even some herbal
supplements. There are several types of arrhythmias; some cause
only mild chest discomfort, while others prompt heart attacks and
strokes.

Earlier this month, researchers at the Harvard University Medical
School presented the results of a dietary survey at the annual
meeting of the American Heart Association. The Harvard team
gathered data from food intake questionnaires given to more than
76,000 women enrolled in the Nurse's Health Study. The
questionnaires were updated every four years for 16 years.

Researchers analyzed the data to determine the intake of foods
containing alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is a precursor of
omega-3 fatty acids. The women were divided into five categories
of ALA consumption, ranging from the least intake to the most. A
daily intake of 0.7 grams was average for those in the lowest intake
group, while those in the highest averaged about 1.5 grams per
day.

Researchers reported these two striking conclusions:

* Subjects with the highest ALA intake reduced the risk of dying
due to sudden cardiac death by more than 40 percent, compared to
the lowest intake group
* Those same high-intake subjects also reduced their risk of dying
due to coronary heart disease by more than 20 percent, compared
to the lowest intake group

The lead author of the study, Christine M. Albert, M.D., told
NutraIngredients.com that because arrhythmias are usually to
blame for sudden cardiac death, the study supports the hypothesis
of previous research that found fish oil to protect the heart from
abnormal rhythms.

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Men, take note
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But alpha-linolenic acid's heart benefits don't stop at arrhythmia
control.

A Pennsylvania State University study shows how an ALA-rich
diet may promote blood vessel resiliency while also improving
cholesterol levels.

So if you're ready to join that group with the highest ALA intake,
just include more of these items in your daily diet: broccoli,
Brussels sprouts, leafy green vegetables and walnuts. But the best
ALA source by far is flaxseed and especially flaxseed oil.

Flaxseed contains lignan, a fiber and phytoestrogen that's rich in
ALA. Lignan is believed to help remove testosterone from the
body, and studies have shown that this may assist in suppressing
the growth of prostate cancer cells. But here's where it gets tricky.

The lignan in flaxseed is found in the outer shell of the seeds.
When the seeds are refined into oil, only a trace of lignan ends up
in the finished product. But this same process dramatically
increases the concentration of ALA. And while some studies have
suggested that ALA may slow cancerous growth in the breast and
colon, the effect on prostate cancer is an entirely different story.

Out of six known studies that have examined the association
between the risk of prostate cancer and the intake of dietary ALA,
five of them found the cancer risk to increase with a high intake of
ALA. But even though flaxseeds have plenty of ALA, the content
is generally considered too low to be harmful to prostate cancer
patients.

There appear to be no harmful side effects for women who get high
amounts of ALA in their diets. But any man who's in a prostate
cancer risk group might be wise to avoid large daily intakes of
ALA, especially from flaxseed oil. Meanwhile, men who wish to
address the risk of prostate cancer by increasing their flaxseed
intake should first talk with their doctor or a health care provider.

 

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tsptalk wrote:

mlk_man wrote:

Tom, have you had your homocysteine levels checked. Many doctors today believe this is a bigger indicator of heart disease than cholesterol levels. Having worked in a clinical lab at a hospital before, I know that clolesterol test results vary from lab to lab and from person to person. Some docs don't think it matters at all anymore. I know that I would stay away from statins from what I've heard..........

To your health,

M_M

NO I haven't had my homocysteine levels checked bt I have heard it is important, as you said.

What are statins?

Prescription medications that doc's give to lower cholesterol.

 

[tsptalk]

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mlk_man wrote:

Tom, have you had your homocysteine levels checked. Many doctors today believe this is a bigger indicator of heart disease than cholesterol levels. Having worked in a clinical lab at a hospital before, I know that clolesterol test results vary from lab to lab and from person to person. Some docs don't think it matters at all anymore. I know that I would stay away from statins from what I've heard..........

To your health,

M_M

NO I haven't had my homocysteine levels checked bt I have heard it is important, as you said.

What are statins?

 

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tsptalk wrote:

mlk_man wrote:

So how is your cholesterol Tom?Are the flaxseeds "neurtralizing" the bacon? :^

My cholesterol is generally high but I've been taking massive doses (5 grams) of niacin for years to control it. It has helped a lot. Have you done any research on niacin and cholesterol? It's really cheap but you get a major "flush" when you take it. I don't mind it.It actually feels comforting tome,but my wife tried itand she can not tolerate it.

Tom, have you had your homocysteine levels checked. Many doctors today believe this is a bigger indicator of heart disease than cholesterol levels. Having worked in a clinical lab at a hospital before, I know that clolesterol test results vary from lab to lab and from person to person. Some docs don't think it matters at all anymore. I know that I would stay away from statins from what I've heard..........

To your health,

M_M

 

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tsptalk wrote:

mlk_man wrote:

So how is your cholesterol Tom?Are the flaxseeds "neurtralizing" the bacon? :^

My cholesterol is generally high but I've been taking massive doses (5 grams) of niacin for years to control it. It has helped a lot. Have you done any research on niacin and cholesterol? It's really cheap but you get a major "flush" when you take it. I don't mind it.It actually feels comforting tome,but my wife tried itand she can not tolerate it.

I knew that large amounts of Niacin can cause flushing, don't know about the niacin and cholesterol relationship though.

 

[tsptalk]

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mlk_man wrote:

So how is your cholesterol Tom?Are the flaxseeds "neurtralizing" the bacon? :^

My cholesterol is generally high but I've been taking massive doses (5 grams) of niacin for years to control it. It has helped a lot. Have you done any research on niacin and cholesterol? It's really cheap but you get a major "flush" when you take it. I don't mind it.It actually feels comforting tome,but my wife tried itand she can not tolerate it.

 

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tsptalk wrote:

My wife uses flaxseeds while baking by grinding the seeds inmy coffee grinder and adding the created powderto muffin mixes etc.

Those muffins aregreat withbacon and eggs.

I looked for ground flaxseed but could only find whole. I don't have a coffee grinder, guess I might get one. So how is your cholesterol Tom?Are the flaxseeds "neurtralizing" the bacon? :^

To you health,

M_M

 

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Rolo wrote:

I've heard Flaxseed oil mentioned before. Ima give it a shot. I take fish oil now, but it is light on omega-6 (you need a proportionate amount of omega-6 with -3).

Oatmeal: good call!

I bought some tonight. Tastes a little buttery, but I couldn't really taste the nutty flavor. Maybe I'll try another brand next time. The grocery store had in the refridgerated section of the organic part and also un-refridgerated. I went with refridgerated because they recommend it. I actually like the idea of the flaxseed over fish oil because of the mercury content of fish. I don't know if the processing gets rid of it not. Better safe than sorry.

There is also another "tree oil" called Pycogenal. I think that is right. If I can find the article, I'll post it. GNC sells something called Pycogenal\Q10 that is supposed to be good. I'll try to find it.

Hope it helps,

M_M

 

[tsptalk]

imported post

My wife uses flaxseeds while baking by grinding the seeds inmy coffee grinder and adding the created powderto muffin mixes etc.

Those muffins aregreat withbacon and eggs.

 

[Rolo]

imported post

I've heard Flaxseed oil mentioned before. Ima give it a shot. I take fish oil now, but it is light on omega-6 (you need a proportionate amount of omega-6 with -3).

Oatmeal: good call!

 

[Guest]

imported post


This looks like a good alternative to fish oil. Apparently it has a nutty, buttery flavor. Be careful though, some people have allergic reactions to it. Probably people allergic to nuts.

I might try it in a salad instead of olive oil...........hmmm, nutty and buttery flavor, oatmeal maybe?

To your health,

M_M



For best absorption, take flaxseed oil with food. It is easily mixed into juices and other drinks, and its nutty, buttery flavor complements cottage cheese, yogurt and many other foods. You can also use it instead of olive oil in a salad dressing. Don't cook with it, however; this will deplete the oil's nutrient content.



What Is It?

A source of fiber for linen fabric since ancient times, the slender flax plant (Linum usitatissimum) also boasts a long history as a healing herb. First cultivated in Europe, the plant's brown seeds were regularly used to prepare balms for inflamed skin and healing slurries for constipation. Today, flaxseeds--also called linseeds--are best known for the therapeutic oil that is derived by pressing them. Rich in essential fatty acids, or EFAs, flaxseed oil has earned a solid reputation for treating a range of ailments, from heart disease to lupus.



Health Benefits

The essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil are its key healing components. EFAs are particularly valuable because the body needs them to function properly, but can't manufacture them on its own. Essential fatty acids work throughout the body to protect cell membranes, keeping them efficient at admitting healthy substances while barring damaging ones.

One of the EFAs in flaxseed oil--alpha-linolenic acid--is known as an omega-3 fatty acid. Like the omega-3s found in fish, it appears to reduce the risk of heart disease and numerous other ailments. Flaxseed oil is an excellent source of omega-3s: Just 1 teaspoon contains about 2.5 grams, equivalent to more than twice the amount most Americans get through their diets. Flaxseeds also contain omega-6 fatty acids in the form of linoleic acid; omega-6s are the same healthy fats found in vegetable oils.

In addition, flaxseeds are a rich source of lignans, substances that appear to positively affect hormone-related problems. Lignans may also be useful in preventing certain cancers and combating specific bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including those that cause cold sores and shingles. When taken in ground form, flaxseeds provide an extra fiber boost, easing the passage of stools and benefiting the digestive tract in multiple ways.

Specifically, flaxseed oil (and flaxseeds) may help to:



Lower cholesterol, protect against heart disease and control high blood pressure. Several studies indicate that flaxseed oil, as well as ground flaxseeds, can lower cholesterol, thereby significantly reducing the risk of heart disease. Taking flaxseed oil may also protect against angina (chest pain) and high blood pressure. In addition, a five-year study done recently at Boston's Simmons College found that flaxseed oil may be useful in preventing a second heart attack. It may also help prevent elevated blood pressure by inhibiting inflammatory reactions that cause artery-hardening plaque and poor circulation.

Counter inflammation associated with gout, lupus and fibrocystic breasts. Omega-3 fatty acids appear to limit the inflammatory reaction associated with these conditions. In cases of lupus, flaxseed oil not only reduces inflammation in the joints, skin and kidneys, but also lowers cholesterol levels that may be elevated by the disease. Taking flaxseed oil for gout may lessen the often sudden and severe joint pain or swelling that is a symptom of this condition. In addition, the ability of omega-3 fatty acids to boost the absorption of iodine--a mineral often found in low levels in women suffering from fibrocystic breasts--makes flaxseed oil potentially valuable for treating this often painful condition.

Control constipation, hemorrhoids, diverticular disorders and gallstones. Because they are high in dietary fiber, ground flaxseeds can help ease the passage of stools and thus relieve constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticular disease. In those with diverticular disease, flaxseeds may also keep intestinal pouches free of waste and thus keep potential infection at bay. Taken for inflammatory bowel disease, flaxseed oil can help to calm inflammation and repair any intestinal tract damage. In addition, the oil may prevent painful gallstones from developing and even dissolve existing stones.

Treat acne, eczema, psoriasis, sunburn and rosacea. The essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil are largely responsible for its skin-healing powers. Red, itchy patches of eczema, psoriasis and rosacea often respond to the EFA's anti-inflammatory actions and overall skin-soothing properties. Sunburned skin may heal faster when treated with the oil as well. In cases of acne, the EFAs encourage thinning of the oily sebum that clogs pores.

Promote healthy hair and nails. The abundant omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil have been shown to contribute to healthy hair growth (in fact, low levels of these acids may cause dry and lackluster locks). Hair problems exacerbated by psoriasis or eczema of the scalp may respond to the skin-revitalizing and anti-inflammatory actions of flaxseed oil as well. Similarly, the oil's EFAs work to nourish dry or brittle nails, stopping them from cracking or splitting.

Minimize nerve damage that causes numbness and tingling as well as other disorders. The EFAs in flaxseed oil assist in the transmission of nerve impulses, making the oil potentially valuable in treating conditions of numbness and tingling. The oil's nerve-nourishing actions may also help in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, a degenerative disorder of the nervous system, and protect against the nerve damage associated with diabetes and multiple sclerosis.

Reduce cancer risk and guard against the effects of aging. The lignans in flaxseed oil appear to play a role in protecting against breast, colon, prostate, and perhaps skin cancer. Although further studies are needed, research undertaken at the University of Toronto indicates that women with breast cancer, regardless of the degree of cancer invasiveness, may benefit from treatment with flaxseed oil. Interestingly, the oil's lignans may protect against various effects of aging as well.

Treat menopausal symptoms, menstrual cramps, female infertility and endometriosis. Because the hormone-balancing lignans and plant estrogens (phytoestrogens) in flaxseed oil help stabilize a woman's estrogen-progesterone ratio, they can have beneficial effects on the menstrual cycle, and relieve the hot flashes of perimenopause and menopause. Flaxseed oil may also improve uterine function and thus treat fertility problems. In addition, the essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil have been shown to block production of prostaglandins, hormonelike substances that, when released in excess amounts during menstruation, can cause the heavy bleeding associated with endometriosis.

Fight prostate problems, male infertility and impotence. The EFAs in flaxseed oil may help to prevent swelling and inflammation of the prostate, the small gland located below the bladder in males that tends to enlarge with age. Symptoms of such enlargement, such as urgency to urinate, may lessen as a result. The EFAs also play a role in keeping sperm healthy, which may be of value in treating male infertility, and they can improve blood flow to the penis, a boon for those suffering from impotence.

Note: Flaxseed oil has also been found to be useful for a number of other disorders. For information on these additional ailments, see our Dosage Recommendations Chart for Flaxseed Oil.

Forms

softgel

oil

capsule

Dosage Information

Special tips:

--Liquid flaxseed oil is the easiest form to use, although it must be kept refrigerated.

--Capsules containing flaxseed oil are convenient for traveling, but can be quite expensive in comparison to the liquid form. Also, a large number of capsules--approximately 14 containing 1,000 mg of oil each--are needed to get the equivalent of 1 tablespoon of oil.

--If using ground flaxseeds, just add 1 or 2 tablespoons of to an 8-ounce glass of water and mix.



For heart disease prevention, gout, lupus, acne, eczema, cancer prevention, hair or nail problems, endometriosis, male infertility, prostate problems and impotence: Take l tablespoon of flaxseed oil in the morning.

For high blood pressure: Take l tablespoon of flaxseed oil a day, along with 1,000 mg of fish oils three times a day.

For hemorrhoids: Add l tablespoon of ground flaxseeds to an 8-ounce glass of water and drink the mixture once a day. Make sure to drink extra glasses of water throughout the day as well. The treatment make take a few days to have an effect.

For gallstones: Take l tablespoon of flaxseed oil in the morning.

For psoriasis: Take l tablespoon of flaxseed oil each morning, along with 1,000 mg fish oils three times a day.

For sunburn, numbness and tingling: Take l tablespoon of flaxseed oil twice a day.

For diverticular disorders: Add 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed to an 8-ounce glass of water. Drink this mixture twice a day. Make sure to drink extra glasses of water throughout the day as well. The treatment make take a few days to have an effect.

For menstrual disorders, menopausal symptoms, female infertility, and rosacea: Take 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil a day, along with 1,000 mg of evening primrose oil or borage oil three times a day.

Be sure to check out our Dosage Recommendations Chart for Flaxseed Oil, which has therapeutic dosages for specific ailments at a glance.

Guidelines for Use





Buy flaxseed oil in an opaque plastic bottle; this will prevent light from spoiling it.

Check the expiration date on the label, as the oil spoils quickly. Keep it refrigerated for freshness. Should the oil develop a powerful odor, discard it.

Avoid buying flaxseed oil marked as "cold-pressed." This type of processing offers no additional benefits, and processed oils are usually more expensive.

General Interaction

There appear to be few if any drug or nutrient interactions with flaxseeds (or their oil). Because flaxseed may interfere with the absorption of certain medicines, however, it's a good idea to consult your doctor if you are already on medication and want to take it in any form.

Possible Side Effects



Ground flaxseeds may produce some initial flatulence, but this won't last long.

Cautions



To prevent ground flaxseed from swelling up and obstructing your throat or digestive tract, drink plenty of water (one 8-ounce glass of water per tablespoon of ground flaxseed) along with it.

Don't take flaxseed oil or ground flaxseed if you have a bowel obstruction of any kind.

Allergic reactions to flaxseed have occurred. If you suddenly have difficulty breathing after taking the supplement, it is imperative that you get medical attention promptly.

Flaxseed oil is also called linseed oil. The industrial types of linseed oil found in hardware stores are not for internal consumption, however. They may have poisonous additives.

Ailments Dosage

Acne 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day

Aging 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day

Angina 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day

Back Pain 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day.

Cancer Prevention 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day, or 4 capsules 3 times a day Cataracts 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Chronic Pain 1 tbsp a day Cold Sores 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Constipation 1-3 tbsp. ground flaxseeds in large glass of water a day Crohn's Disease 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Eczema 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Endometriosis 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Fatigue 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Hair Problems 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Heart Disease Prevention 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Hemorrhoids 1 tbsp. ground flaxseeds a day, mixed into large glass of water High Blood Pressure 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Impotence 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Infertility, Female 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Infertility, Male 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Kidney Stones 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Lupus 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Menopause 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Multiple Sclerosis 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Nail Problems 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day.

Parkinson's Disease 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day.

Perimenopause 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day

Prostate Problems 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Psoriasis 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day.

Rosacea 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day

Shingles 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day for flare-ups.

Skin Health 1 tablespoonful daily; can be mixed with juice Stroke 1 tbsp. (14 grams) a day Sunburn 1 tbsp. (14 grams) once a day, mixed with food or juice. Can also be dabbed directly on sunburned skin