Flax Hull Lignans
| The emerging story on Lignans Flax Lignans are one of the most overlooked sources of a wide ranging highly beneficial nutritional. Research studies are showing that it is actually a component of the flax seed called the lignan that is responsible for some of the benefits derived from the seed. In fact, the research is showing that if the lignan is separated from the flax seed and concentrated, then the health benefits are magnified. Research suggests lignans may benefit consumers in the following areas: | ||
| • Acne • Antic-carcinogenic • Bone health • Breast health • Cholesterol levels • GI tract inflammation • Hair loss • Heart health • Prostate health • Reducing symptoms of menopause • Type II Diabetes |  | |
| What are Flax Lignans ? Flax lignans are contained in the hull of the flax seed and are biologically active phytochemicals with apparent anti-cancer and antioxidant potential. The flaxseed has a particularly rich source of a lignan called secoisolariciresinol diglycodisde (’SDG”). The SDG is converted by bacteria in the colon of humans and other animals to mammalian lignans, enterodiol and enterolactone. Because these mimic some of the effects of estrogens, their plant-derived precursors are classified as phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens work by binding to estrogen receptors on our cell membranes, much like the body’s own steroid estrogens do. By doing so, lignan phytoestrogens mimic estrogen in the body and can be used as an alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy without the side effects. A nutritional profile of the flax hull lignans is listed in the accompanying table. Where are the Flax Lignans found ? Lignans are found in most fiber-rich plants, including grains such as wheat, barley and oats; legumes, and vegetables but by far the flaxseed contains the richest source of Lignans, providing 75-800 times more Lignans than most other plant sources. (Table : Lignan content of selected foods) But it takes approx. 4 gallons (40 lbs) of flaxseed ( 4 x 96 oz containers) to extract enough of the Lignan Secoisolariciresinol Diglycodisde (SDG) to produce one 5.3 oz container of Lignan concentrate. Lignan content of selected foods* | ||
| Food Flax seeds Sesame seeds Curly kale Broccoli Apricots Cabbage Brussel sprouts Strawberries Tofu Dark rye bread | Serving 1oz 1oz 1/2 cup, chopped 1/2 cup, chopped 1/2 cup, sliced 1/2 cup, chopped 1/2 cup, chopped 1/2 cup 4 oz 1 slice | Total Lignans 11.2 mg 0.8 mg 0.6 mg 0.4 mg 0.3 mg 0.3 mg 0.2 mg 0.2 mg 0.1 mg |
