What the research says

Here's what the research shows about flaxseed and flaxseed oil for the following conditions:

• Heart disease. Some studies suggest that alpha-linolenic acid, which is found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil, might benefit people with heart disease. Some research also suggests that flaxseed and flaxseed oil might help lower high blood pressure, which may help lower the risk of heart disease.
• Cholesterol levels. Several studies have found that taking flaxseed daily can lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also called LDL cholesterol. LDL is considered the "bad" cholesterol.
• Diabetes. Flaxseed might lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, but studies are mixed. Flaxseed oil has not been found to help lower blood sugar.
• Cancer. The research is mixed on whether flaxseed or flaxseed oil has an effect on cancer.
• Menopausal symptoms. Research results are mixed when it comes to the use of flaxseed to treat symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes.
• Constipation. Some studies have shown flaxseed to be helpful in easing constipation.