Does flaxseed aid in hormone imbalances?

From the Guidelines

Flaxseed may not be the most effective aid for hormone imbalances, as the current evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acid intake, particularly from fish oil supplements, may have a more beneficial impact on menstrual abnormalities and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 1. When considering the use of flaxseed for hormone imbalances, it is essential to note that while it contains lignans and omega-3 fatty acids, which may have some benefits, the evidence is not strong enough to support its use as a primary treatment for hormone imbalances. Some key points to consider include:

• Menstrual abnormalities, such as irregular cycles and pre-menstrual tension, have been associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, and fish oil supplements may have a more significant impact on reducing these risks 1.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hyperandrogenic endocrine disorder that may benefit from omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, but the evidence is currently limited, and more research is needed 1.
• The British Dietetic Association recommends dietary omega-3 fatty acids for women with PCOS, but this does not specifically include flaxseed 1. It is crucial to prioritize the most recent and highest-quality evidence when making recommendations, and in this case, the evidence suggests that fish oil supplements may be a more effective aid for hormone imbalances than flaxseed. However, if flaxseed is still considered for use, a typical recommended dose is 1-2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed daily, which can be sprinkled on food or mixed into smoothies, and it is essential to start with smaller amounts and gradually increase to avoid digestive discomfort.

From the Research

Flaxseed and Hormone Imbalances

• Flaxseed has been found to have a potential impact on hormone imbalances, particularly in relation to estrogen metabolism 2.
• The lignans present in flaxseed, specifically secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), are converted into enterodiol and enterolactone, which have antiestrogen activity and can bind to cell receptors, decreasing cell growth 3, 4.
• Studies have shown that supplementation with flaxseed can alter estrogen metabolism in postmenopausal women to a greater extent than supplementation with an equal amount of soy 2.
• The modification of estrogen metabolism by flaxseed is associated with an increase in urinary lignan excretion, and may have a positive effect on reducing the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast cancer 4, 5.

Mechanisms of Action

• The lignans in flaxseed have been found to modulate estrogen metabolism and estrogen receptor signaling pathways, leading to decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis 5.
• The omega-3 fatty acids present in flaxseed, particularly alpha-linolenic acid, have also been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may contribute to the potential health benefits of flaxseed consumption 6.

Potential Health Benefits

• Flaxseed consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women 4, 5.
• The lignans in flaxseed have also been found to reduce breast cancer and all-cause mortality by 33%-70% and 40%-53%, respectively, without reducing tamoxifen effectiveness 5.
• Additionally, flaxseed consumption has been found to have potential benefits for cardiovascular health, gastrointestinal health, and brain development and function, as well as hormonal status in menopausal women 6.