Flax is one of the plants that humanity has benefited by providing its production for many years. For more than 4000 years, flax flower has been produced to take advantage of its seeds. Flaxseed contains high amounts of fiber. Flax leaves and stem are also a plant with a fibrous structure. While it was previously produced for food, its role in human health was also discovered. Thus, it was aimed to find solutions to some diseases and to heal by using flaxseed. The health benefits of the natural plant products used later came to the fore, but in some cases, it caused more harm than good with side effects in individuals. With the advancing technologies, it has emerged that various bodies or people with diseases should pay attention to the use of natural plants. Today, we need to learn how much natural products we prepare for our health in our homes should be used and whether they will show us any side effects.
Can flax seeds be eaten every day?
Flaxseed consumption varies. In ancient times, people used to grind flax seeds into flour. Then, this flour was mixed with other flours in pastries such as cookies, bread and cakes. In addition, the form of flour was also consumed by using it in some dishes. Consumption of flaxseed without grinding can be by adding it to foods such as yogurt and milk. You can even add flaxseed to the prepared smoothie, adding richness to the drink. It may be the most practical flaxseed recipe with yogurt.
Flaxseed can be consumed directly by adding it to yogurt. In another way, consuming it with chia seeds in yogurt is one of the popular diet recipes. Ground flaxseed can also be consumed in the same way. However, if the flaxseed, which should be considered in this recipe, is left for 24 hours after grinding, negative effects may occur in the body due to toxins. Flaxseed, like other foods, should be consumed at a certain level. The daily consumption amount of 40 g of flaxseed should not be consumed every day. When consumed in excess, it has negative effects on health. Flaxseed benefits are effective when consumed in sufficient quantities.
Who can not use flaxseed?
Flaxseed is one of the herbal seeds and it has drawbacks in excessive consumption like most of the products with natural ingredients. It brings with it side effects that may occur due to reasons such as consuming more than the recommended amount or consuming it unconsciously. Some of these negative effects in the body of some individuals occur with allergies. People with allergies such as flower allergies and plant allergies may also be allergic to flaxseed. If these people want to consume flaxseed, they should consult their doctor. Likewise, pregnant and lactating mothers should seek the opinions of their specialist doctors before consuming flaxseed. Because the consumption of flaxseed can cause negative results in the bodies that require hormonal sensitivity. Potassium in its content may also be inconvenient for people with kidney disease. For this reason, kidney patients who want to consume flaxseed should consult their doctor. People who are inconvenient to use flaxseed:
- Those with flower, plant or flaxseed allergies
- Pregnant and lactating mothers
- Those taking cholesterol-lowering medication
- Those who use blood thinners
- Users of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
What are the side effects of flaxseed?
Side effects of flaxseed, which has rich content in many ways, may occur. Although these side effects are directly related to the health status of individuals, they also depend on the amount and continuity of consumption. Flaxseed contains a large amount of lignans. The lignan it contains can increase immunity by showing antioxidant properties. However, if more than enough flaxseed is consumed, it can cause hormonal disorders. Individuals with various cancer diseases should consult their doctor before consuming flaxseed with the sensitivity of their hormonal levels. Flaxseed, like almost any food, causes allergic reactions. Excessive consumption can cause serious health problems as the severity of the allergic reaction will increase. In addition, since flaxseed contains a high amount of fiber, it is good for some digestive problems, but excessive consumption can show excretory problems such as indigestion, bloating or diarrhea. Side effects of flaxseed:
- Allergic reactions may occur.
- It can cause diarrhea and indigestion.
- Intestinal and stomach problems may occur.
- It makes it difficult for blood to clot.
- May cause vomiting or bloody stools.
Flaxseed shows its benefits when consumed consciously and in recommended amounts. Benefits of flaxseed:
- Flaxseed contains omega-3 fatty acids.
- Since it is a vegetable source of omega 3, it can prevent the growth and proliferation of various cancer cells.
- For heart health, omega 3 and fiber-based foods should be consumed. Because flaxseed contains high amounts of these two active substances, it plays an effective role against circulatory system diseases.
- Lignans in flaxseed reduce the risk of diabetes. However, there are no definite findings in the studies that flaxseed is good for diabetes.
- Thanks to its fibrous structure, it activates the work of the large intestine. Thus, flaxseed is good for constipation, indigestion and bloating.
- Flaxseed also fights asthma by showing an antiviral effect against asthma, one of the respiratory tract disorders.