Flaxseed colon cancer

Studies using animals suggest that regular consumption of flaxseed can protect against certain types of tumors and reduce the risk of colon cancer. Flaxseed, also called linseed, has been shown in some studies to improve kidney function, lower LDL cholesterol levels, and increase bowel movements. A compound derived from flax is being investigated as a possible treatment for lupus. 

As previously mentioned, flaxseed is a rich source of dietary fiber (28%). Dietary fiber has been widely viewed as a component essential to lowering the risk of colon cancer. The flaxseed protein is similar to soy thus may be beneficial to health. Bhathena et al. (2002) first reported that flaxseed protein was effective in lowering plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerides (TAG) compared to soy and casein protein in male F344 and obese SHR/N-cp rats. The role of protein in disease prevention warrants further investigation. Components, such as PAs and flavonoids, may also contribute to the health benefits of flaxseed. 

In an in vivo study, Jenab et al. [150] demonstrated the protective effects of flaxseed lignans against colon cancer. This was associated with an increase in P-glucuronidase activity. The total activity of this enzyme correlated positively with total urinary lignan excretion, especially secoisolariciresinol diglycoside, and negatively with the total number of aberrant crypts and the total number of aberrant crypt foci in the distal colon. 

Dwivedi, C., Natarajan, K., and Matthees, D. 2005. Chemopreventive effects of dietary flaxseed oil on colon tumor development. Nutr. Cancer. 51, 52-58. 

Seed and oil used against colon, breast, and prostate cancers. Also called flaxseed and linseed. 

---