Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) has drawn some scientific interest for its potential role in supporting or treating Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Animal studies have shown that flaxseed and its derivatives (such as flaxseed oil and lignans) may reduce hepatic fat accumulation, improve liver enzyme profiles, and decrease inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver. These effects are largely attributed to flaxseed's high content of alpha-linolenic acid (an omega-3 fatty acid) and lignans, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, human clinical evidence remains limited and preliminary. A small number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans have suggested modest improvements in liver function tests and lipid profiles among NAFLD patients who consumed flaxseed supplements or ground flaxseed. For example, a few studies have reported reductions in serum ALT and AST levels, as well as decreased markers of oxidative stress, after 12 weeks of flaxseed supplementation. Still, these studies are generally small, short-term, and sometimes lack rigorous blinding or dietary controls.

In summary, while there is a plausible biological mechanism and some early-stage evidence from both animal models and small human trials, the overall strength of evidence is currently weak (rated 2 out of 5). More robust, large-scale human studies are necessary before flaxseed can be confidently recommended as a treatment for fatty liver disease.

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