LIGNAN RESEARCH AND DOSAGE

We are only just beginning to understand the role of lignans in the prevention of hormone-associated cancers, osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases.

 

Men and women have hormones in their bodies, e.g. testosterone, estrogen and progesterone. The amount of hormones circulating in our bodies varies throughout our life. Hormones influence our health and how we feel.

 

 

Lignans have a structure that is similar to that of human estrogen. That is why they are also called phytoestrogens or (plant based estrogens). Although lignans have a weak estrogenic effect (much weaker than human estrogens), they can help balance hormone levels in the body. A shortage of estrogen maybe supplemented by lignans.

 

 

Increased phytoestrogens have the potential to lower breast and colon cancer risk. Consistent use of flax seed Lignans has the ability to increase bowel function up to 30% - which means that constipation and colon cancer (among other health problems) are also improved.

 

 

Moreover, it has been found that lignans have strong antioxidant activity. Antioxidants help protect our bodies from free radicals while strengthening the immune system.

 

The recommended daily dose of lignan concentrate for general therapeutic use is 1/2 teaspoon (5 grams)* or a volume equal to about the first joint of your little finger. (Note—the lignan containers include a measuring scoop).

 

 

Use the Lignan concentrate in the same way you do the flaxseed and along with flaxseed. Add one scoop (1/2 tsp) of the lignan concentrate plus 1-2 tbls flaxseed (ground) to any liquid or food and mix in. For example, an excellent way to start the day is with a protein shake or smoothie, plus the flaxseed, plus a scoop of lignans and some fresh or frozen fruit. Try flax, soy or almond milk as the liquid (see recipes).

 

 

 

Additional information and a guide to more references maybe found in “Flax Lignans” by Beth Ley and Irene Sonju. This handbook gives an overview on the subject of lignans, nutritional details, applications, usage and listed references that were cited in the compilation of the data.

 

 

Please contact Blue Sky Distributors for specific applications or an update on continuing research.

 

* Daily value not established.