Jul 24, 2024
5 min read
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Are you looking for natural ways to support your heart and prostate and even manage weight? If so, flaxseed might be the solution you've been searching for! These tiny linseeds offer surprising essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and lignans antioxidant targetting flax seeds benefits for men including the most common health concerns for men, reducing excessive inflammation, improving heart health, supporting prostate health, aiding digestion, and even promoting weight management.
But these are just a few of them. Let’s discuss and cover the many flax seed benefits for males, focusing on hormonal balance, cancer prevention, and more. So, keep reading!
1. What Is Flaxseed?
2. 9 Benefits Of Flaxseed For Male
3. Do Flax Seeds Boost Testosterone?
4. Nutritive Values Of Flaxseed
5. Dietitian’s Recommendation
6. The Final Say
7. FAQs
8. References
Flaxseeds, tiny linseeds from the flax plant, are loaded with nutrients like fibre, omega-3s, and lignans, which are plant compounds with antioxidant properties. These golden or brown seeds can be eaten whole, ground, or turned into oil. They are known for their many health benefits, including improving heart health, aiding digestion, balancing hormones, and improving overall health. For a healthy diet, flaxseeds can easily be added to many foods, such as smoothies, oatmeal, and salads.
Also Read: Top 10 Potential Benefits Of Flax Seeds As A Superfood
Consider these essential benefits of flaxseed for males, focusing on various hormonal and wellness areas of your health:
Flaxseeds offer a high content of essential omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which significantly helps reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. ALA can lower the risk of heart disease by decreasing bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol (HDL).
This is particularly beneficial for men, who are more prone to fat deposition in the abdomen. The lignans in flaxseeds also act as antioxidants, protecting the heart by preventing harmful plaque formation in the arteries, thus reducing heart attacks and strokes.
Flaxseeds contain lignans, which have phytoestrogen properties that help balance male hormones, specifically testosterone. These lignans may reduce the risk of prostate hypertrophy and prostate cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
Flaxseeds' anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties protect against free radicals, which significantly damage your body’s cells and lead to cancer. Also, men who consume flaxseeds have lower levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a prostate cancer risk indicator.
Also Read: Let's Uncover 6 Benefits of Gastro Health Supplements!
Flaxseeds are highly recommended source of dietary fibre, essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. The soluble fibre in flaxseeds helps absorb water, soften stools, and prevent constipation by promoting healthy gut microflora.
Insoluble fibre increases stool bulk and promotes regular digestion. Its prebiotic effects also support a healthy gut microbiome, which supports men’s digestive health and nutrient absorption.
Flaxseeds' high fibre and protein content helps with weight management by promoting fullness feeling and reducing overall calorie intake. Fibre slows digestion stages, keeping you fuller for longer, while protein helps maintain and grow muscles.
Consuming flaxseeds or taking flaxseed oil for weight loss can reduce hunger and appetite, making it easier for men to follow a healthy diet and avoid overeating.
Flaxseeds offer high omega-3 fatty acids content and lignans, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic pain associated with conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes is more common in men, but regular consumption of flaxseeds can help reduce inflammation.
Flaxseeds' omega-3s help reduce antibody production in the body, while lignans also have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to prevent chronic diseases.
Also Read: These 8 Best Foods For Bone Health And Muscle Development
The omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins in flaxseeds support healthy skin and hair. Omega-3s help keep skin hydrated, reduce dryness, and prevent signs of early ageing in men, such as wrinkles and fine lines.
Antioxidants in flaxseeds for skin care protect men's skin from harmful free radicals and environmental factors. Flaxseeds' nutrients also promote hair growth, reduce hair loss, and improve hair's overall texture and strength.
Flaxseeds can help control blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for men with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. The fibre in flaxseeds slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, leading to more stable blood sugar levels.
Regular consumption of flaxseeds can increase insulin sensitivity in men and lower blood sugar levels, helping to prevent diabetes-related complications.
Flaxseeds provide essential nutrients for muscle growth and development. Their protein supplies amino acids needed for muscle repair and building, which is especially important for men who engage in regular physical activity.
Incorporating flaxseeds into a post-workout diet can help increase muscle mass, reduce muscle soreness, and support overall health goals.
Flaxseed is rich in ALA, a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid. Studies suggest a link between healthy sperm function and sufficient omega-3 intake.
Improved sperm motility, which is the ability of sperm to swim effectively, is crucial for reaching and fertilising an egg. Some research suggests ALA may contribute to better sperm motility. Further, healthy sperm shape (morphology) is another key factor in fertilisation. While more research is needed, some studies hint that ALA in flax seeds might positively impact sperm morphology.
Also Read: 8 Essential Benefits Of Vitamin D For Men's Health And Well-being
Flaxseed is packed with lignans, plant compounds that act like a weak estrogen. Some are worried that flaxseed might lower testosterone in men. Lignans can attach to testosterone, potentially reducing its activity. Science even shows that diets high in flaxseed may have a weak estrogenic effect in the morphogen gradient and may slightly alter testosterone levels in the body.
But hold on! These effects are minor. Conversely, flaxseed boasts many health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and providing healthy omega-3s. These perks contribute to overall hormonal health.
The bottom line? While flaxseed may slightly lower testosterone, its overall health benefits likely outweigh this concern for most men. However, if you're really worried about your testosterone levels, it's best to enjoy flaxseed in moderation and focus on a well-rounded, nutritious diet.
Also Read: 7 Recommended Multivitamins For Men To Fulfill Their Nutritional Needs!
Note these nutritional values of flaxseed for reference:
Nutrient | Amount per 1 Tablespoon (10 grams) |
Energy | 37 kcal |
Protein | 1.3 grams |
Total Fat | 3.0 grams |
Saturated Fat | 0.3 grams |
Monounsaturated Fat | 0.6 grams |
Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 grams |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.6 grams |
Carbohydrates | 2.0 grams |
Dietary Fibre | 1.9 grams |
Sugars | 0.2 grams |
Calcium | 26 mg |
Iron | 0.6 mg |
Magnesium | 40 mg |
Phosphorus | 66 mg |
Potassium | 56 mg |
Zinc | 0.4 mg |
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) | 0.11 mg |
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) | 0.03 mg |
Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 0.3 mg |
Folate (Vitamin B9) | 8 µg |
Understanding how flaxseed supports health and incorporating it into a healthy diet can greatly improve a man's overall health and quality of life. There are many ways to include quality flax seeds in your diet to get essential omega-3,6,9 for relieving constipation, improving skin elasticity, supporting weight loss & texture, and boosting immunity in males. Here are some simple and delicious ideas:
Dt. Akshata Gandevikar
To sum up, flaxseed is a nutritious food with many health benefits for men. The benefits of flaxseed are vast, from improving cardiovascular health and hormonal balance to supporting digestion and preventing cancer. So, include flaxseed in your diet to improve your wellness and provide more energy.
1. Does flaxseed affect sperm?
Yes, flax seeds have been shown to have a positive effect on sperm health and motility. ALA especially plays a role during the capacitance process of fertilisation and maintains sperm plasma membrane integrity while bolstering flagellar (movement) motility.
2. How much flaxseed should a man take?
A typical recommendation is 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed daily. This dosage provides ample omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and lignans, offering various health benefits. It's important to start with a smaller amount to see how your body reacts and to drink plenty of water to aid digestion.
3. Are there any side effects of consuming flaxseeds?
While generally safe, consuming too many flaxseeds can cause digestive issues like excessive bloating and gas due to their high fibre content. It's essential to drink plenty of water and start with small amounts. Some people also experience allergic reactions, especially those on medication; consult your doctor before adding flaxseeds to your diet.
4. Do flaxseeds need to be ground before eating?
Well yes! Flaxseeds must be ground before eating to maximise their nutritional benefits. Whole flaxseeds may remain undigested as they move through the digestive system, leading to lower absorption of nutrients. Ground flaxseeds are easier for the body tissues to digest and absorb, ensuring you get the full benefits of their omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and lignans.
5. Can flaxseeds affect hormone levels in men?
Certainly! Flaxseeds contain lignans, which have weak estrogen-like effects, which might slightly reduce testosterone levels. However, these effects are generally mild. The overall health benefits of flaxseeds, such as improved heart health and reduced inflammation, usually outweigh concerns about hormone levels when consumed in moderation.
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