Golden Linseed (Flax Seed)

What are Golden Linseeds?

• They are a superfood which is high in fibre – a great source of soluble and insoluble fibre.
• They are gluten and wheat free.
• They help support a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut (microbiome) and help support mucus production for a healthy gut lining to reduce irritation.
• They may be bought from supermarkets and health food shops.
• They are available whole, split or ground.
• Also known as flax seeds.
• Do not use the dark brown linseeds as they are coarser and do not offer the same positive benefits.

How linseeds can help

• Promotes bowel movements and reduces constipation by increasing the water content and bulk of stool, softening and lubricating the bowel motion.
• They are a gentle, natural and effective laxative.
• Can also be used to manage irritable bowel and reduce bloating.
• They can have a stabilising effect on oestrogen levels so can be helpful for symptoms of the menopause.

How to take them

• Milled or ground linseed is often easier to eat and are easier to digest. Whole seeds can be ground in a coffee grinder.
• Start by taking 1 teaspoon of linseed per day. This may be increased gradually as needed. You can take up to 3 tablespoons per day.
• Linseeds can act within 12 – 24 hours but may take 2 – 3 days to reach the maximum effect.
•  Most people get a good result with 1-2 tablespoons a day.
• Have at least 150ml of fluid per tablespoon of linseed.
• The seeds or powder can be sprinkled directly over food such as breakfast cereal, sandwiches, salads, yoghurt or smoothies.
• Alternatively, they may be soaked in water and left overnight before adding to fruit juice, yoghurt, porridge etc.
• It is common to see linseeds in the stool. This is normal.
• Linseeds should be taken at least 30 minutes to one hour before or after taking other medicine.

Linseeds need fluid to work properly. It is important to drink about 2 litres of fluid in a day. Too little fluid can cause constipation. 

Who should not take linseed?

• Linseed is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential hormonal changes. It is ok to use Golden Linseed if you are breastfeeding.
• Patients who take blood thinning medications such as Warfarin, Aspirin or Clopidogrel are advised not to take linseeds as linseed oil may have an effect on the blood’s ability to clot.

Cautions

• Patients with diverticulitis are advised to take the ground form of golden linseeds for ease of digestion. Whole golden linseeds may be ground in a coffee grinder.
• Linseeds can lower blood sugar levels so diabetic patients who already take medication to lower their blood sugar may be able to take linseed, but with medical supervision.
• Linseeds may naturally change oestrogen hormone levels so women with current or previous hormone based cancers or other hormone-sensitive conditions should consult their doctor before taking.