Flax seeds may look small, but they have many benefits for your health. However, this does not mean that you consume them excessively. You should also be aware of the possible side effects of flax seeds. Flax seeds are a plant-based food that originated in Southern Europe and Asia. These golden-yellow to reddish-brown seeds have also been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
These seeds are considered healthy, as they provide good fats, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber. Moreover, flax seeds are rich in lignans and have both estrogen and antioxidant properties. Common side effects of flax seeds include constipation, allergies, bleeding disorders, and more. See how excessive consumption of these seeds can affect your health. What are flax seeds? Flax seeds are small seeds that are good for health. They are a rich source of nutrition as they contain omega 3 fatty acids as well as fiber. These are good for digestion as well as weight loss.
Check out ways to include flax seeds in your diet for weight loss. Side Effects of Flax Seeds Here are some side effects of flax seeds that you should be careful about: One of the biggest side effects of flax seeds is that you are very likely to be allergic to flax seeds and flax seed oil. You should stop consuming these seeds if you notice any itching, swelling, redness or hives. Vomiting and nausea can also be a sign of allergy. People who eat flax seeds often are more likely to develop allergies.
Although this allergy is rare, a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology describes an incident in which an 11-month-old child had severe anaphylaxis after eating flax seeds. One of the benefits and side effects of flax seeds is that they contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. So while this can help you, it can also cause a problem. According to a study published by Advances in Nutrition, flax seeds can cause problems. Yes, if consumed in large quantities, it can increase inflammation in the body.
Flax seeds often act like estrogen, and this means that it can disrupt the hormonal balance in your body. In some cases, it can also lead to changes in the menstrual cycle. There are some women who also experience other hormonal problems like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), uterine fibroids, uterine cancer, and ovarian diseases. This is one of the biggest side effects of flax seeds that everyone should be aware of. Due to their surprising similarity with estrogen, flax seeds can be harmful for pregnant women. Therefore, it is advisable to consume flax seeds only if your doctor deems it appropriate. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says that one of the most harmful side effects of flax seeds is that they have a mild hormonal effect. However, more research is needed on this. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says that other side effects of flax seeds include diarrhea and upset stomach, which cannot be ignored.
Flax seeds are rich in dietary fiber, but sudden consumption of flax seeds can increase the number of bowel movements. You may also experience stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. Flax seeds should be taken with water or another liquid, but if you consume without adequate fluids, your intestines may get blocked and obstructed. This is especially dangerous for scleroderma patients, as flax seeds can cause severe constipation and blockage. So, do not consume it unless your doctor allows you to! Since flax seeds are high in fiber, they cause intestinal blockage and constipation. In this condition, the absorption of certain medications and supplements is impaired. It is best to avoid it, especially if you are taking oral medication to lower blood sugar levels. Make sure to keep these side effects in mind when consuming these tiny nutrient-rich flax seeds. People with bowel obstruction, inflamed intestines as well as esophagus should stay away from flax seeds. Although there is no set dosage of flax seeds that can be taken every day, it is safe to eat about 1-2 tablespoons daily. Get the latest updates on Health & Fitness as well as Healthy Eating, Nutrition, Recipes, Superfoods
