Key Findings
This early review of the effectiveness of flaxseed and its components on humans identified 24 clinical studies, 11 of which involved flaxseed oil. Only six trials each with flaxseed and flaxseed oil, involving a total of 208 people, met all the criteria of well to designed clinical trials. The hypothesis that ALA of flaxseed oil protects against cardiovascular disease was supported by four studies. Three studies concluded that consumption of flaxseed either raw or defatted reduces total and LDL cholesterol in humans. The paper notes that most of the work on biological activities of flaxseed focus on ALA, lignans and, to a lesser extent, soluble polysaccharides (gum).
ABSTRACT
Flaxseed is emerging as one of the key sources of phytochemicals in the functional food arena. In addition to being one of the richest sources of a to linolenic acid oil and lignans, flaxseed is an essential source of high to quality protein and soluble fibre and has considerable potential as a source of phenolic compounds. The implications of diets containing flaxseed or its components for human nutrition and disease prevention are analysed in this paper. Results of the first meta analysis examining the relationship between intake of flaxseed or its components and risk reduction of disease in humans is presented. Some areas of potential opportunities and impact of using flaxseed or its components in the diet are highlighted. (Authors abstract)
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