ALL ABOUT LIGNANS

Lignan is a phytochemical (plant chemical) that is found in highest concentrations in the shell or husk of the flaxseed.   Flaxseed contains from 100 to 800 times the plant lignans than wheat bran, rye buckwheat, millet, soybeans and oats.

There is currently a lot of interest in lignans due to the suspected assocation between lignans and a low incidence of breast and colon cancers.  It is thought that the lignans are converted in the colon into compounds that offer some sort of protective effect against these cancers.

Research into lignans is still in early stages but all indications are promising that plant lignans have therapeutic benefits.

It is also thought that lignans weaken the effect of excess estrogen.  Because lignans are mildly etrogenic, they may fill estrogen receptors in the breast, thus displacing other estrogens.

Also women who consume high levels of lignans reported a reduction in breast ternderness, bloating, hot flushes and other PMS and menopausal symptoms.

Sources of Flax Lignan

• Flax meal is a good source of lignans as the meal contains the husk of the flax seed. 
• Grinding your own flaxseeds is also a good source of lignans. 
• Flaxseed oil may contain lignans if it hasn't been heavily refined.
• There are also supplements available that have high doses of lignans.

Link to:  Melrose Lignan Life Supplement