Question
I received an e-mail stating that a pilot study has found that flaxseed reduces hot flashes in menopausal women. Can you tell me if this legitimate?
Answer
Yes, it is. Some preliminary research suggests that flaxseed may reduce hot flashes in menopausal women. However, a larger study is needed to confirm these findings.
Mayo Clinic researchers studied 29 women who had at least 14 hot flashes a week for at least one month. In this preliminary study, researchers excluded participants with a history of diabetes or bowel or bleeding disorders. Study participants consumed 40 grams (about 4 tablespoons) of ground or crushed flaxseed a day for six weeks. At the end of six weeks, participants reported a 50 percent reduction in hot flashes. Although these results are promising, it should be noted that participants reported troublesome side effects — including bloating, diarrhea and gas — due to the high-fiber content of flaxseed.
If you have bothersome hot flashes and you want to try flaxseed, talk to your doctor first. Consider taking flaxseed for a trial period to see what, if any, effects it has on your menopausal symptoms and note any side effects. To minimize gastrointestinal side effects, start with 2 tablespoons of flaxseed sprinkled on cereal, yogurt or fruit once a day for about three weeks. Then, increase to 2 tablespoons twice a day. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water or other fluids every day.
Last Updated: 12/29/2007
