What is Flaxseed?

Flaxseeds (also flaxseed or linseed oil) are becoming more and more popular because they are a high source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, although in the oil form the fiber content is not as high (Source: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/flaxseed/index.htm). The key ingredient is alpha-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid that may aid in fighting certain diseases (Source:http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health_living/nutrition/).

Research on Flaxseed

There have been numerous clinical studies looking at the effects of flaxseed/oil on heart health as well as cancer and diabetes. For example, one randomized, double-blind, controlled study of women concluded that dietary flaxseed may reduce tumor growth in women with breast cancer (Source: Thompson, L.U., et al. (2005). Dietary flaxseed alters tumor biological markers in postmenopausal breast cancer. Clinical Cancer Research, 11:3828-3835). However, studies showing a direct association between flax and weight loss could not be found as evidence to cite here (Source:http://nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-flaxseed.html).

That means that as far as research can tell, flax alone is not a primary ingredient or reason to buy a diet pill. Flax has shown promising results in clinical studies as a laxative, although when it is a minor ingredient in diet pills, or included as part of a “proprietary blend,” there may not be enough to have any effect at all (Source: http://mayoclinic.com/health/flaxseed/NS-patient-flaxseed).

Effects of Flaxseed

Because of the high fiber content, flaxseed might initially be considered a dieter’s dream. It can help flush out the insides…unless too much is consumed, in which case it has the opposite effect. This could contribute to weight loss but not necessarily fat loss.

Also, flax may help you feel fuller longer which could help decrease daily caloric intake. Once again, this characteristic of flax does not link it directly to weight loss, but any fiber included in the diet is a good thing regardless of the end result.

Flaxseed Review Conclusion

This review is neutral concerning flaxseed as a weight loss aid for two reasons. The main reason is that there is a lack of solid research associating flaxseed with weight loss. However, because flaxseed may lead to greater satiety and fullness, and because of its Omega-3 content, it may be beneficial as an ingredient in diet pills. So consider flax a bonus when it is in a diet pill, just make sure there is enough included to have an effect at all.