Lignans are “phytoestrogens” – estrogen-like compounds found in plants (‘phyto’). Lignans have been studied for their potential to reduce the risk of CVD as well as certain types of hormone related cancer, including of the breast, prostate and colon. Flax produces 75 – 800 times higher levels of active lignans than of other vegetable, fruit, legume, cereal, or seed.

The major lignan in flaxseed is called seicoisolariciresinol diglucoside, commonly referred to as SDG. Once ingested, SDG is converted in the colon to ‘active’ mammalian lignans, enterodiol and enterolactone, which have shown promise in reducing growth of cancerous tumors, especially hormone sensitive ones such as those of the breast, endometrium and prostate.

Other benefits of SDG from flax include effectiveness in lowering the onset of both type I and II forms of diabetes due to its potent anti-oxidative ability and the ability to lower serum cholesterol . Animal studies have also shown that flax can decrease atherosclerotic plaque formation caused by high dietary cholesterol. In addition, flax lignans have powerful antioxidant properties which reduce the activity of cell-damaging free radicals that are generated through oxidation in the body. Because free radicals attack and breakdown the cells they are strongly associated with aging.

Kelley Fitzpatrick
Director of Health & Nutrition
Flax Canada