5 Side Effects Of Consuming Excessive Flaxseeds

Flaxseed is a plant-based food that is rich is Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fibre.As the vegetarian source of Omega-3 fatty acids and weight loss friendly food, flaxseeds have recently gained a lot of popularity. In fact, when consumed in moderation, one can have benefits like lowering of blood sugar, blood cholesterol, help in treating autoimmune disorders.Yet over consumption of flaxseed of the sake of losing weight is not advisable as it can produce some serious side effects.

Flaxseeds surely are healthy, but due to the extensive hype, the side effects of this seed are usually ignored.While it may be effective in treatment of diabetes, high cholesterol, menopausal symptoms, etc., use of flaxseeds can also cause certain side effects.As a result, if you end up consuming way too much of these seeds you may land in a disturbed health condition.

Before you decide to include flaxseeds in your diet, you should be aware of the following side-effects of excessive consumption of this particular food. Also, since some of these side effects can cause extremely serious health complications, it is best to consult a doctor before you start your intake.

* Allergic Reactions

Excess consumption of flaxseeds may cause allergic reactions in some people. Prolonged obstructed breathing, low blood pressure levels and anaphylaxis are the most commonly reported allergic reactions of flaxseeds. Other reactions may include nausea, abdominal pain and vomiting.

* Loose Stools

While being fibre-rich, this seed may work great to prevent constipation, excessive consumption may, in fact, induce loose stools. When consumed in limited quantities, it prevents constipation and ensures regular and healthy bowel movements. However, an excess of flaxseeds can increase the frequency and count of your bowel movements. It can even lead to diarrhoea in some cases and irritable bowel syndrome. For those who are already suffering from these health conditions, it is advisable to avoid flaxseeds in all circumstances

* Intestinal blockage

Experts say that consuming too much of flaxseeds without enough fluids can lead to intestinal blockage and obstructions. Those who have already dealt with such conditions are expected to avoid these seeds. Although, flaxseed oil is effectively used in the treatment of scleroderma, Scleroderma patients should be cautious about flaxseed intake because it can cause severe constipation and bowel obstruction.

* Unsafe for conception and pregnancy

Women who consume flaxseeds regularly experience changes in their menstrual cycles because flaxseeds mimic the action of oestrogen. In fact, due to their oestrogen like effect, flaxseeds can induce menstrual cycles. Women experiencing hormone related conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine fibroids, uterine cancer, and ovarian cancer should be cautious about overuse of flaxseed. Expectant mothers are also advised to not consume flaxseeds because they can induce periods and harm the baby and the mother in an unexpected way.

* Reactions with other medications

Flaxseeds, rich in fibre, can block the digestive tract and prevent the absorption of certain medication and supplements. So when on oral medication, one must avoid consuming flaxseeds. They may also change the effects of blood thinning medication and blood sugar medicines.