Health Benefits of Flaxseed Oil
What are the health benefits of flaxseed oil, especially for women? What are flaxseed oil side effects?
Flaxseed oil also known as linseed oil comes from the flax seed. A tiny seed that is thought to carry a big wallop when it comes to health. It is considered to be a rich source of plant based Omega 3 fatty acids. It also contains Omega fatty acids 6 and 9, B vitamins, potassium, lecithin, magnesium, fiber, protein and zinc. All vitamins and minerals your body needs.
Flaxseed oil is used as a dietary and is said to have a slightly nutty taste and can be taken by mixing it in water, juice or health food drinks. You can also get flaxseed oil in capsules. It is also mixed with vinegar and lemon to make a tasty salad dressing.
Health benefits of Flaxseed Oil
There have actually been few studies done into the health benefits of flaxseed oil. Researches have shown that there is a reduction in both breast and colon cancer when people ingest a diet high in lignan. Flaxseed oil has 100 times more lignans than do most whole grains.
Other benefits of flaxseed oil include increasing energy and as an aid in losing weight. It is also believed that flaxseed oil can accelerate the healing of sprains and bruises, strengthen finger and toe nails, lower blood pressure and improve mental function in the elderly.
It has also been used as a balm to treat skin irritations and as a mild laxative for the treatment of constipation.
While more research needs to be done to determine the exact benefits of flaxseed oil, there are much anecdotal evidence that people using this oil have found it to have many health benefits and this oil has achieved a large following.
While flaxseed oil is considered a safe supplement there are some side effects that are associated with the ingestion of flaxseed oil. These include diarrhea and when taken in large amounts bleeding, bruising, severe headaches and allergic reactions. Pregnant women should not take flaxseed oil and as with any health supplement it is always best to consult your doctor before starting a new supplement as it may have side effects with various medicines you are taking.
Besides the health benefits of flaxseed oil, this oil is also used in industrial products. Benefits of flaxseed oil in industry include as an addition in oil based paint and varnishes. It is used in a hardener in putty and in the manufacturing of linoleum.
While there are few studies to show exactly what are the health benefits of flaxseed oil, it is believed that it can be and is a healthy dietary supplement since it contains many important vitamins and minerals our bodies need. While this health supplement can have side effects they are usually minor and mostly related to the intake of too large a quantity of the oil.
Other benefits of flaxseed oil can be found in its use in the manufacturing of many products we use in our homes.
What Do You Think?
Do you have something to say or add to this article? Share it!
Return from Health Benefits of Flaxseed Oil to the iBenefits home
Subscribe
