Alsi Seeds (Flax seeds) Benefits, Uses & Side

Effects

16-Apr-2015 by Dr. Jagdev Singh

 Nuts & Seeds

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Alsi Seeds, also known as Flax seeds, are beneficial in cardiac disorders, digestive diseases,
cancer and diabetes. Alsi (flax) seeds are one of the world’s renowned super foods. These seeds
are very nutritious and helping in a several health conditions. They are very rich in Omega-3
essential fatty acids. Alsi seeds also contain a good amount of dietary fiber and Lignans.

Botanically, Alsi seeds are LINUM USITATISSIMUM and have a relation to LINACEAE
Family.

Discovered in the 8th century, flax seeds are being used over the centuries and it may help in
ailments such as heart disease, breast cancer and diabetes. Alsi seeds also have a unique
characteristic to make you feel satiated when these seeds are eaten before meal. Thus, it reduces
food craving and excessive hunger that occurs in obese people. Therefore, these seeds are also
good to include in the diet plans for losing weight.

Alsi Seeds (Flax seeds) Benefits & Uses

Cancer Protection

Alsi seeds when consumed may help in battling against breast, prostate and colon cancer. This
preventive action of Alsi seeds is due to Omega 3 fatty acids.

Diabetes

Recent research has proved that consumption of Alsi seeds three times daily may help in type 2
diabetes. Taking Flaxseed powder for at least a month can also help in lowering blood sugar
levels.

Cholesterol Control

Alsi Seeds can reduce the bad cholesterol content in the body. It also prevents atherosclerosis
(hardening and thickening of arteries).

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Osteoporosis

Alsi seeds can show an improvement in the bone density levels thus possibly providing relief in
osteoporosis and arthritis.
Constipation

Alsi seeds are fiber rich. Hence, they can help with constipation problems as well.

Prevents Hot Flushes

Alsi seeds can help women experiencing hot flushes in their menopausal stage. These seeds can
also help in curbing the symptoms of pre-menopause.

Cardiac Problems

ALPHA LINOLENIC ACID in Alsi lowers the risk of heart problems.

Helps in ADHD

Alsi possibly improves the symptoms exhibited in Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.

Other Benefits

Alsi Seeds helps in following diseases, but a few evidences are available for their efficacy in
these diseases.

 Enlarged prostate
 Heart disease
 Endometrial cancer
 Breast pain
 Lung cancer
 Weight loss
 Stomach upset
 Skin irritation
 Bladder inflammation

Alsi Seeds Side Effects

Alsi Seeds when consumed in excess can have a few side effects, which are minor. These side
effects include.

 Gastric Problems
 Stomach Pain
 Bloating
 Nausea
 Loose Stool
 Internal Bleeding
 Increased Bowel Syndrome
 Prostate Cancer Risk
Caution

It is possibly unsafe to consume Flax (Alsi) Seed if you are undergoing the following.

 Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

 Food Allergies
 Bowel inflammatory diseases
 Gastrointestinal Obstruction
 Bleeding Disorders
 Low Blood Pressure
 Hypertension
 Hypertriglyceridemia
 Bipolar Disorder
 Digestive Disorders

Drug Interactions

Do not consume flaxseed if you are consuming the following drugs.

 Anti Diabetic Drugs namely glimepiride and glipizide

 Antiplatelet Drugs such as clopidogrel, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dalteparin, heparin,
Warfarin, dalteparin, naproxen and aspirin.
 Alsi can also interact with other anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, high blood pressure
medicines and cholesterol controlling medicines.

Cautionary Advice

If you take any kinds of medicines or supplements regularly, it is better to take Alsi Seeds two
hours before or after consumption.