Flaxseed and Human Health: Reviewing Benefits and Adverse Effects

Abstract

Consumption of flaxseed has been increased due to its possible functional properties in health. However, its chronic consumption may offer risks considering the effects of lignans in men and in pregnant women, as well as the existence of other phytochemicals and toxic factors with adverse health effects in the seed. The present review focuses on the growing body of evidence on the potential health benefits of flaxseed in humans, with supporting evidence from human and animal studies. It also raises questions that provide input for future research on the effects of flaxseed ingestion in terms of nutrient bioavailability and human fertility.

Keywords:

• disease prevention
• flaxseed
• health
• phytochemicals

Acknowledgments

The authors thank CNPq and FAPEMIG/Brazil for their financial support and for granting both master's and research initiation fellowships.