Flax seeds’ high levels of fibre, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids have made them a popular superfood in recent years. To increase nutritional intake, they are frequently added to baked products, salads, and smoothies. But like any meal, eating too many flax seeds can have unexpected negative effects. In moderation, they can be immensely helpful, but excessive usage might result in a number of health problems.
1. Gastrointestinal Distress
A great source of dietary fibre that can aid in better digestion is flax seeds. But eating too many flax seeds at once might overwhelm the digestive tract and cause diarrhoea, gas, and bloating. Particularly for people who are not accustomed to eating a lot of fibre, the high fibre level may make the intestines work harder.
2. Hormonal Imbalance
Plant substances called lignans, which resemble oestrogen, are found in flax seeds. While some people may benefit from this, particularly those seeking a natural hormone balance, consuming too many flax seeds might cause hormone imbalances. Specifically, excessive oestrogenic activity can interfere with hormone therapy or impact women’s menstruation.
3. Blood Thinning Risk
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), one of the omega-3 fatty acids found in flax seeds, is well known for its potential to thin the blood. In moderation, this is good for the heart, but eating too many flax seeds can make bleeding more likely.
4. Allergic Reactions
Flax seed allergies are rare but can occur in certain people. An allergy to flax seeds can cause hives, swelling, itching, and in extreme situations, anaphylaxis.
5. Thyroid Function Interference
Goitrogens, which are substances found in flax seeds, can affect thyroid function. These substances might prevent the body from absorbing iodine, which is a necessary mineral for thyroid function. Consuming flax seeds in moderation is generally safe, but consuming too much of them may cause thyroid malfunction, particularly in those who already have thyroid problems.
6. Risk of Cyanide Toxicity
Small amounts of cyanogenic chemicals, which can emit cyanide when ingested in significant numbers, are present in flax seeds. Small levels of cyanide can be detoxified by the body, but cyanide toxicity, which can result from consuming too many flax seeds, particularly raw or unprocessed ones, can induce headaches, nausea, dizziness, and in severe cases, even more severe symptoms.
7. Digestive Blockages
Even while flax seeds are high in fibre, if taken in excess without enough fluids, they may potentially cause intestinal obstructions. If not enough water is taken, the soluble fibre in flax seeds may induce constipation or obstruction because it absorbs water and expands in the stomach.
8. Reduced Absorption of Certain Nutrients
Although flax seeds are high in nutrients, eating too many of them might affect how well some vitamins and minerals are absorbed. This is especially true for vitamins that are fat-soluble, such as A, D, E, and K. If flax seeds are consumed in excess, their high fibre content may bond with these elements and decrease their bioavailability, eventually resulting in shortages.
With its many nutritional advantages, including fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, flax seeds are definitely a good supplement to most diets. Like any food, though, they can have unfavourable side effects if consumed in excess.
