Flaxseed Oil Side Effects

Are you worried about flaxseed oil side effects?

Flaxseed oil is a natural oil and it's an excellent source of plant-based omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fats offer many health benefits, such as fighting inflammation, reducing your risk for blood clots and may improve mood and learning function in children.

There are currently no published studies looking at adverse side effects directly attributed to ingesting flaxseed oil. However, there are some things you should be aware of before you start supplementing your diet with this healthy oil.

The majority of published research looks at:

• risks from excessive levels of alpha linolenic acid (ALA)
• possible hormonal effects from phyto-estrogens in flaxseeds
• possible bleeding risks from excessive omega 3 fatty acids

When I started using flaxseed oil, I thought that it was generally safe for everyone to use and I didn't think twice about side effects. However, research shows that when a diet includes flaxseed oil there may be side effects you need to be aware of.

Possible Side Effects of Flaxseed Oil

1. Flaxseed oil and increased breast cancer risk

There are conflicting studies in this area. Some animal studies show alpha linolenic acid(ALA) in flaxseed oil protects against breast cancer and a study in Toronto found women awaiting breast cancer surgery had slower growing breast tumors when they ate muffins with 25 grams of ground flaxseeds. Other studies showed an increased risk of breast cancer from high amounts of ALA. More research is needed to form any definite conclusions.

2. Flaxseed oil may affect blood clotting abiltiy

Some researchers believe flaxseed oil may affect blood clotting factors. This can be particularly worrisome for individuals who are taking blood thinning medications such as Coumadin, Heparin or even aspirin. If you wish to take flaxseed oil, and you're taking these types of medications, you should first consult with your doctor.

3. Flaxseed oil and pregnancy

Studies show the lignans in flaxseeds contain phyto-estrogens (a natural plant-based estrogen) which may encourage menstruation. This may be harmful to your pregnancy. Animal studies found large amounts of flaxseeds might affect the reproductive system. It's probably wise to consult with your obstetrician before supplementing your diet with flaxseed oil.

4. Flaxseed oil and breastfeeding

Doctors are unsure of the effects phyto-estrogens in flaxseed oil may have on nursing babies. So far, there are no studies in this area so it would be best to be cautious and avoid using this oil while breastfeeding. Again, consult your doctor before taking flaxseed oil while breastfeeding.

5. Giving flaxseed oil to children and infants

There are no documented studies looking at side effects of flaxseed oil in very young children and infants. I started giving my son flaxseed oil mixed in fruit smoothies when he was 3 years old and he was fine. If your child has suspected food allergies you may wish to consult with your child's pediatrician before giving flaxseed oil.

6. Don't apply flaxseed oil to your eyes, open sores or wounds
7. Beware of flaxseed oil's side effects on the gastrointestinal system

Ingesting excessive amounts of flaxseed oil may cause an upset stomach and diarrhea in some individuals.

8. Avoid taking flaxseed oil if you're allergic to flaxseed or linseeds

A study from Spain found some people have experienced hives, watery eyes, diarrhea, shortness of breath, stuffed up nose, and other allergic reactions from flaxseed oil.

9. Never heat or cook flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil is a 'cold' oil and should always used at room temperature or cold. I usually store my bottle of flaxseed oil in the fridge after opening and I believe most flaxseed manufacturers also recommend the bottle be stored in the fridge after you open it.

A study from the National Cancer Institute in Maryland showed exposing alpha linolenic acid (the omega 3 fatty acid found in flaxseed oil) to high cooking temperatures creates benzenes, a cancer-causing agent. Even though you can't cook with flaxseed oil, you can use it "cold" on salads or mixed in protein shakes and fruit smoothies.

Conclusions:

Although there aren't any documented studies on flaxseed oil's side effects, it pays to be cautious with any natural supplement.

You can avoid these side effects of flaxseed oil by using common sense. Consult your health care provider if your have specific medical conditions that need to be addressed. As long as flaxseed oil is not used excessively or abused, I think it's a tasty, healthy fat for one's diet.

Flaxseed oil is an excellent plant-based source of omega 3 fatty acids. You need these essential fatty acids to function properly. Proper use of this healthy natural oil will go a long way to giving you the results you seek.

Research References: