Health Benefits and Side Effects of Flaxseeds for Men and Women

Flaxseeds are one of the most underrated healthy seeds that we should eat. When you know the interesting facts and health benefits of flax seeds, it will be overwhelming. Very rich in nutrients, proteins, fibers, fats, vitamins, and minerals, flaxseeds alone can meet the nutritional needs of your body.

Flax seeds are plant-based foods that provide soluble fiber and oil. It contains phytoestrogens and omega-3 fatty acids, including alpha-linolenic acid. In addition, flax seeds have been used as a medicine since 500 BC.

Nowadays, flax seeds are emerging as a “superfood” as more scientific research points to their health benefits. Here we have described the topic of Health Benefits and Side Effects of Flaxseeds for Men and Women. 

Read This: Top 5 Health Benefits Of Bananas for Men and Women

Health Benefits Of Flaxseed For Men

• Helps to manage diabetes

Flaxseeds may be helpful in the management of diabetes and prediabetes in people who are obese. It lowers blood sugar and insulin levels and increases insulin sensitivity.

• Lowers high cholesterol levels

Flaxseeds may be beneficial in lowering total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood. This may be due to the presence of certain bioactive components such as linoleic acid, fiber, and non-protein content.

• Manages constipation

Flaxseeds can help prevent and manage constipation. This is due to its laxative property. It increases the volume of stool and stimulates relaxation and contraction of the intestinal muscles. It helps to pass stool easily.

• Lowers high blood pressure

Flaxseeds can be helpful in managing high blood pressure due to the presence of fiber, lignans, α-linoleic acid, and arginine. Arginine is necessary for the production of nitric oxide, which is a powerful vasodilator. It can lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.

• Good for weight management

Flax seeds can be helpful in weight management. It is rich in soluble and insoluble fibers, which combine with water and digestive juices. This increases gastric content and the time food stays in the stomach and also promotes a feeling of fullness. It can also decrease the absorption of certain nutrients, which in turn can reduce the accumulation of fat.

Health Benefits Of Flaxseed For Women

Flaxseeds are tiny seeds full of nutrients, commonly known as flax seeds. They have an earthy and nutty flavour. According to research, flax seeds have many uses and benefits for women.

• Flaxseeds for Hair and Skin

The benefits of flaxseeds are even visible for hair and skin. Flax seeds are a good source of vitamin E. Flaxseed oil can be applied directly to the scalp to get the most benefit from it. It helps to make the hair stronger and promote hair growth. Likewise, flaxseed gel can benefit the hair and skin. Apply flaxseed gel to the hair and wash for 1 hour before washing the hair. This will help to increase the shine of the hair and the face.

• Flaxseeds to Cure Constipation

Soaked flax seeds are high in fiber and consist of natural laxatives, so they have benefits in curing constipation. You can use roasted flaxseed powder to soak it in water overnight.

• Flaxseeds Regularise the menstrual cycle

Flax seeds benefit females by maintaining the normal length of time between ovulation and menstruation. It also helps with female infertility by increasing the chances of conception. It also helps maintain hormonal balance.

• Flaxseeds for Weight Loss

Also, the benefits include weight loss. They are a high source of omega fatty acids and fiber, which gives you a sense of fullness. To achieve good absorption of nutrients, it is best to consume flaxseed powder. Even flaxseed oil can be consumed for optimal benefits.

• Flaxseeds are heart-friendly

Studies indicate that flaxseed oil capsules can be taken for omega fatty acids, which are known as good oils or good oils for the heart. Even flaxseed water can be consumed for cardiovascular benefits. Grind the flax seeds and add them to the water. This flaxseed water can be consumed early in the morning on an empty stomach for its health benefits.

• Flaxseeds have No gluten

Like Jowar, flax seeds are gluten-free. Thus, a person intolerant to gluten can also consume seeds for their benefits.

• Flaxseeds are Flavourless

Flaxseeds do not have a strong flavour. Therefore, it can be added to any other food to increase its nutritional benefits. Chia seeds are packed with soluble fiber, and flax seeds are made up of omega-3 fatty acids. The benefits of chia and flax seeds can be taken by adding them to oats or salads.

Side Effects Of Flaxseeds

• Flaxseeds cause Gastrointestinal disorders

If flax seeds are eaten in large quantities, they could block the intestines due to the laxative bulking effects of flax seeds. They should be taken with plenty of water to prevent this from happening. Adding flax seeds to the diet in large quantities could increase the number of stools each day. It can also cause gastrointestinal (GI) side effects such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, upset stomach, and nausea.

• Flaxseeds’ Interaction with Medicines

Flax seeds can even interact with drugs. This could slow down blood clotting. Taking flaxseed with medicines that also slow down clotting may increase your risk of bruising and bleeding. Flax seeds can lower blood sugar levels. Medicines for diabetes are also used to lower blood sugar. Taking flaxseeds with diabetes medication can cause your blood sugar levels to drop. Flax seeds are high in fiber and can block the digestive tract, which could prevent the absorption of certain drugs and supplements.

• Flaxseeds during Pregnancy

Flax seeds can induce menstrual cycles due to their oestrogen-like effect, so pregnant women are not advised to eat these seeds. It can cause unwanted effects on pregnancy, including an increased risk of preterm labour. It is also not a good option for women who are trying to conceive. You can also try beets during pregnancy.

• Flaxseed Allergy

You may notice an allergy to flax seeds and flaxseed oil. In this case, you should stop and avoid the use of flaxseed oil if there are symptoms of itching, swelling, redness, or hives when you ingest it. You may also notice vomiting and nausea. See a healthcare practitioner right away if your reaction to flaxseed oil causes a tightness in your throat or shortness of breath. These are symptoms of anaphylactic shock.

How to take it?

1. Flaxseeds

• Take 1-2 teaspoons of Flaxseeds or as per your requirement.
• You can eat either raw or lightly roasted.
• Take them preferably after meals and chew properly.

2. Flaxseed oil capsule

• Take 1-2 Flaxseed oil capsules.
• Swallow with water after taking food.

3. Flaxseed oil

• Take 1-2 teaspoons of Flaxseed oil.
• Mix with hot water or milk.
• Have it at night before sleeping.

Conclusion

Flaxseeds can offer a wealth of benefits for both genders, going from heart health and digestion to hormonal health and skin health. Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber, and can be a healthy addition to your diet. That said, as with any superfood, it is possible to consume too much flaxseed at a time. Extreme consumption of flaxseeds may contribute to digestive disturbance or interfere with certain medications. Above all, if you have health issues, talk to your medical provider before making flaxseeds a regular part of your diet.