Flaxseed Oil Benefits for Women

Flaxseed oil is considered a rich healing oil. Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, is prepared from the seeds of the flax plant. It contains alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3 essential fatty acid), lignans (phytochemicals), vitamins and magnesium. Flaxseed oil is known for providing a number of health benefits and has been certified as 'good for the heart' by the American Heart Association. Flaxseed oil can be taken directly or it can be used as an ingredient in salads, cereals or cooked vegetables. It can also be mixed with yogurt or combined with a blender drink.

Flaxseed Oil for Women's Health

Flaxseed oil is considered as a boon for women's health. Given below are some of the many benefits of flaxseed oil, especially to women.

• The essential fatty acids contained in flaxseed oil help to minimize the risk of breast cancer. Researches have found that a high content of omega-3 fatty acids in breast tissues can reduce the incidence of breast cancer.
• Flaxseed oil can be used to treat various women's health problems such as premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramps, pre-menopausal symptoms, endometriosis and female infertility. It can also improve uterine function and health.
• Flaxseed oil helps to regulate the menstrual cycle, balance the progesterone levels and reduce menopause problems such as sleep difficulties, headache, anxiety, mood swings, breast cysts, etc.
• Flaxseed oil consists of lignans, which are naturally occurring plant estrogens. They can effectively balance the hormonal levels as well as promote natural ovulation. Lignans in flaxseed oil are also helpful for prevention of estrogen-related cancers and prevention of metastasis of tumors.
• The essential fatty acids present in flaxseed oil can prevent the production of prostaglandins, which when released in excess amounts can cause heavy bleeding during menstruation.
• Phytoestrogens present in flaxseed oil stabilize the estrogen-progesterone ratio and help to relieve hot flashes in perimenopause and menopause.
• Flaxseed oil is an excellent dietary supplement for women who suffer from osteoporosis. Omega-3 essential fatty acids present in flaxseed oil can improve the absorption of calcium in the body and thus, lower the risk of calcium deficiency in women.

Those were some properties of flaxseed oil that are especially beneficial for women. On a more general note, following are some of the most prominent benefits of flaxseed oil for everyone, irrespective of gender or age.

• Alpha-linolenic acid in flaxseed oil helps to lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, flaxseed oil helps to reduce inflammation associated with lupus and gout. Lignans present in flaxseed oil act as antioxidants.
• Flaxseed oil, one of the richest sources of omega-3 essential fatty acids, lowers the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides and minimizes the risk of heart attack.
• It is used to treat various hormone-related problems and inflammatory disorders.
• Omega-3 fatty acids present in flaxseed oil strengthens the immune system.
• People who regularly take flaxseed oil tend to have healthy, glowing skin and hair. The essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil can contribute to healthy hair growth, therefore, making flax oil beneficial for hair.
• Flaxseed oil also plays a significant role in fat burning and thus, helps to maintain a healthy body weight.
• These essential fatty acids can also reduce the risk of colon cancer, skin cancer and endometrial cancer.
• Besides this, flaxseed oil reduces the risk of blood clot formation, immune and inflammatory disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, and certain types of cancer.
• Magnesium present in flaxseed oil helps to reduce the symptoms of asthma.
• Flaxseed oil can relieve constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, gallstones and diverticular disorders.
• It can also accelerate the healing of bruises and sprains.
• The essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil can relieve a number of skin diseases such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, rosacea and sunburn.

In a nutshell, the daily intake of flaxseed oil definitely has many positive effects on women's health. Though it offers a number of health benefits, consumption of flaxseed oil is not recommended for pregnant and breast-feeding women. Studies have found that women who consume flaxseed oil in the second or third trimesters of pregnancy are at a higher risk of preterm labor and delivering a premature baby. So make sure you do not do so. Although flaxseed oil does not have as much Omega-3 fatty acids as fish oil, it is safer as compared to fish oil because fish oil may contain traces of mercury and heavy metals which can prove toxic for the body. Also, flaxseed oil is a good source of essential fatty acids for vegetarians and vegans. However beneficial flaxseed oil may be, it is not wise to overindulge in it. For general well-being, any quantity between 800 mg - 1000 mg per day is sufficient for adults. In case you are taking flaxseed oil supplements to treat chronic health conditions such as arthritis or hot flashes, your recommended dosage may be more or less. However, before you pop down those flax-seed oil pills, make sure to get your weight and BMI measured and consult a dietician or your doctor for advise on your recommended daily intake. Be aware to stay healthy!