The Facts

• Flaxseed, the seed of the flax plant, is grown in North America and Canada. There are two types of flax seed. One type is grown for the seed use and considered an oil seed variety. The other is grown specifically for fiber production to be utilized in the texture industry. Although research suggests that flaxseed appears to be generally well tolerated, some side effects do persist in those with certain conditions.
  
  

Benefits

• Flaxseed oil is used for constipation, abdominal problems, breathing problems, sore throat, eczema, menstrual problems and arthritis. According to Womenfitness.com, it also aids in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease by reducing cholesterol and decreasing blood pressure, and the large amount of fiber in flaxseed keeps you satiated longer, making it ideal for weight management. Additionally, flaxseed oil is high in alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that is thought to have beneficial effects against cancer.
  
  

Harmful Effects

• Although there are few studies of flaxseed safety in humans, many studies using animals have yielded several results. Because of its possible laxative effects, people with diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease should avoid flaxseed. Due to the possible hormone-changing effects of flaxseed, it should be used cautiously in women with hormone-sensitive conditions or women that are pregnant. Additionally, those with high blood triglycerides should avoid flaxseed and flaxseed oil due to possible harmful effects on triglyceride levels in animal research. Because the omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed and flaxseed oil may increase blood sugar levels, those with diabetes should use caution when consuming flaxseed and flaxseed oil.
  
  

Warnings

• Unripe flaxseed pods are believed to increase blood levels of cyanide, a toxic chemical, and should be avoided. Based on animal studies, overdose of flaxseed may cause breathing difficulties and weakness, and may cause seizures or paralysis. Because severe allergic reactions have been reported, a person with a known allergy to flaxseed should avoid all flaxseed products.
  
  

Considerations

• While several studies on the effects of flaxseed exist, many of the results yielded were based on animal studies, and the studies on humans have produced unclear results. According to the Mayo Clinic, all of the evidence regarding the physiological effects of flaxseed are based on "unclear scientific evidence." Thus, while the available research does suggest that certain effects may occur, the evidence regarding the side effects of flaxseed is not fully conclusive.