PhD, Agronomy and Crop Science (ongoing), Master’s degree, Food Science and Technology · 1 years of experience · South Africa

• The addition of flax to the diet everyday in high doses may induce increased bowel movements, it can also cause bloating, gas, stomach pains and nausea.

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PhD in Nutrition · 11 years of experience · Brazil

• Individuals taking blood thinner warfarin should consult with their healthcare practitioner before increasing their flax intake because large doses of omega-3 fatty acid may have blood-thinning effects.
• Flax should be consumed with caution during pregnancy because of undesirable risks. It is due the phytoestrogen and lignans which can cause lower birth weight and affect the development of the offspring’s reproductive system.
• Individuals which consume flax without drink plenty of fluid may have digestive problem such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and nausea. It is because flax is rich in fiber, and fiber need to water to form a gel-like.
• Flax has cyanogenic glycosides which in excessive amounts may impair the function of thyroid gland. 50 grama per day is safe and beneficial.

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Masters of Science in Nutrition Counseling · 18 years of experience · USA

• It is best to consume flax meal rather than whole flax seeds because the body doesn’t absorb the oils from the seed if the seed isn’t broken open. The flax meal has been ground, and therefore the oils are released.
• Be sure to keep flaxseed oil in the refrigerator and only consume it cold or at room temperature in recipes such as salad dressings because it has a low smoke point.

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