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Eating flaxseeds to relieve constipation or lose weight? Consuming the tiny healthy seeds can do more harm than good, as there are potential side effects of flaxseeds. The plant-based superfood, available in golden-yellow and reddish-brown colours, is used in Ayurvedic medicine. The seeds offer healthy fats, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and fibre that are all needed by your body. Also, these seeds are rich in lignans, and have both estrogen and antioxidant properties. Common side effects of flaxseeds include constipation, allergic reactions and bleeding disorders. But the list is longer than you think.
Flaxseeds are small seeds that are good for health. Here are some of the benefits of flaxseeds:
Check out the ways to include flaxseeds for weight loss in your diet.
Here are some of the side effects of flaxseeds:
One of the biggest side effects of flaxseeds is that there is a high chance you may have an allergy to flaxseeds and flaxseeds oil. You should stop consuming these seeds, if you notice any itching, swelling, redness, or hives. Vomiting and nausea could also be an indicator of an allergy. Those who consume flaxseeds frequently are more likely to develop allergic reactions. While this allergy is rare, a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, recounts an incident where an 11-month-old infant developed severe anaphylaxis after ingesting flaxseed.
One of the benefits and side effects of flaxseeds is that they contain inflammation-reducing omega-3 fatty acids. So while that can help you, it can also create an issue. According to a study published by the Advances in Nutrition, flaxseeds can prove to be problematic. Yes, if consumed in large amounts, it could exacerbate inflammation in the body.
Flaxseeds often act like estrogen, and that means it could hamper the hormonal balance in your body. In certain cases, it could also lead to changes in the menstrual cycle. There are some women, who also experience other hormonal issues like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), uterine fibroids, uterine cancer, and ovarian diseases. This is one of the biggest side effects of flaxseeds that one needs to be aware of.
Due to their striking similarity with estrogen, flaxseeds may be harmful for pregnant women. Therefore, it is advised to consume flaxseeds, only if your doctor deems it fit. The National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health states that one of the most harmful side effects of flaxseeds is that they have a mild hormonal effect. However, more research is needed.
Loose motions as well as an upset stomach are the other side effects of flaxseeds that cannot be missed, states the National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health. Flaxseeds are rich in dietary fibre, but a sudden increase in consumption can increase the number of bowel movements. You may also experience stomach ache, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.
Flaxseeds should ideally be had with water or any other fluid, but if you consume them without enough liquid, you could end up with intestinal blockage and obstructions. It is particularly dangerous for patients with scleroderma because flaxseeds can cause severe constipation and blockage. So, don’t consume them unless your doctor gives you a go-ahead!
Because flaxseeds are high in fibre, they contribute to intestinal blockage and constipation. In this condition, the absorption of certain medications and supplements gets inhibited. It is best to avoid it, especially when you’re on oral medication to reduce blood sugar levels.
Make sure to keep these side effects of flaxseeds in mind while consuming these tiny nutritional powerhouses.
People with a bowel obstruction, an inflamed bowel as well as esophagus should stay away from flax seeds.
While there is no fixed dosage of flaxseed that can be had everyday, about 1-2 tablespoons are safe to eat per day.
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