Evidence supporting the use of: Flax
For the body system: Prostate

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

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

Flax (Linum usitatissimum), particularly its seeds and oil, is sometimes used in the context of prostate health. The primary scientific interest centers on flaxseed's high content of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, and lignans, which are phytoestrogens. Several laboratory and animal studies have suggested that lignans may have anti-cancer properties, including potential benefits for prostate health by influencing hormone metabolism and exerting weak estrogenic effects. Some small human studies have investigated flaxseed supplementation in men with prostate cancer or elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. For example, a notable pilot study published in "Urology" (2001) found that men consuming flaxseed had lower rates of cell proliferation in prostate tissue. However, larger and more recent studies have been inconclusive, and some meta-analyses suggest no significant effect of flaxseed on prostate cancer risk or progression. Furthermore, concerns have been raised in some epidemiological studies about the relationship between high ALA intake and increased prostate cancer risk, but evidence is inconsistent, and not specific to flaxseed alone. In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary research, the evidence supporting flax for prostate health is limited and not definitive, warranting a low-to-moderate rating.

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