Flax seeds have become tremendously popular in fitness circles due to the various health benefits associated with them. Flax seeds are helpful in curing constipation, blood sugar and pressure control, and help in reducing high cholesterol. For women, consuming flax seeds for a continued period reduces breast pain. Flax seeds are very useful in weight loss as well. With so many benefits, it is no wonder that they have become a rage lately.
But along with highly advertised benefits come little-known side effects. It is a common belief that consuming flax seeds is healthy in every way possible but no one really talks about the downsides of doing the same. So, before you decide to add flax seeds to your diet, read about the following side effects of it.
Might induce loose stool
Now, it is true that flax seeds are very helpful for treating constipation but the same boon becomes a bane when it starts to mess up with bowel movements. Eating a lot of flax seeds can actually cause loose stool and increase the number of bowel movements on a daily basis.
Causes inflammation
Even though flax contains Omega-3 Fatty acids, which is majorly seen as anti-inflammatory. But Flax seeds can still cause inflammation and even bloating if consumed in a large quantity. So, it is important to consume the seeds in moderation.
Unsafe for women trying to conceive
If you are actively planning to conceive and want to expand your family, then think twice before consuming flax seeds. These seeds act like estrogen, which causes the balance of hormones in a woman’s body to go off track. In many cases, even the menstrual cycle is disturbed. Although it is a very extreme case, but some women might face conditions like PCOS and some ovarian diseases.
Beware during pregnancy
Just like women trying to conceive, flax is also not recommended for women who are pregnant. The estrogen again plays a role here. They can actually trigger a menstrual cycle during the pregnancy, which is equally unsafe for both the mother and the unborn child.
Causes allergy
Although consuming flax is safe for most adults, it may cause allergic reactions to happen to some people. Look for signs like itching, constant nausea, vomiting, swelling and rashes or redness. If these things keep happening whenever you have flax seeds, immediately stop it. Consult your doctor before you go ahead with consuming flax seeds.
Might lead to intestinal blockage
If you are habituated to eating a handful of flax seeds without water in the morning or use it generously in salads, you might want to reconsider. Having flax seeds without water can cause severe intestinal blockage and restricted stool movement. So, always remember to eat your flax seeds with water or any other liquid.
So, while flax seeds are extremely healthy and are useful to prevent many health conditions or lower their effects on our body, but it is also important to remember the side effects that they have and, in the end, make a smart and judicious choice of having flax seeds in moderation or eating it properly, according to your health condition.