Flaxseed Protects Against Cancer, Diabetes

CHICAGOFlaxseed may play a role in preventing breast, prostate, colon and skin cancers while the soluble fiber and other components may affect insulin secretion and maintenance of steady blood sugar, according to a review paper, published in Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety.

The paper evaluated current research on flaxseed, its role as a functional food, and any potential benefits it may have against diabetes and certain cancers. Flax is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid, and phytochemicals such as lignans.

Flaxseed has been the focus of increased interest in the field of diet and disease research due to the potential health benefits associated with some of its biologically active components, according to researchers at the School of Food Science and Technology at Jiangnan University in China.