FLAX HULL LIGNANS

Flax Hull Lignans

C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D

Everyone knows the benefits of flax seed oil. Do you know that flax seed lignans are equally good? They are anti-cancer, anti-viral, anti-fungal and are powerful antioxidants, significantly improving immune function. They also reduce LDL cholesterol.

It has long been known that lack of fiber in the American diet is one of the greatest deficits. It is present in peas and lentils, beans, most fruits, etc. The most gut friendly soluble fibers are pectin and flax hull lignans.

Insoluble fibers have a laxative effect and add bulk, helping prevent constipation. They do not dissolve in water and are not digested so they add no calories. BUT they speed up the gut transit time. They are present in whole grains and most vegetables, as well as grapes, raisins, etc. If your bowels are sluggish, add bran and avoid white flour and white rice. White junk bread and white rice are as dangerous as sugar! White rice and flour raise insulin requirement.

Soluble fibers are those that absorb water and form a gel, slowing bowel transit, and reducing insulin requirement, etc. They are present in most fruits and in flax seeds and hulls, and in chia seeds. If you do not eat at least 5 or more servings of fruits and veggies daily, you really need to add fiber, and for most people, soluble fiber is far better. Far better than flax seeds themselves are flax hull lignans.