Flaxseed contains phytoestrogens which could potentially affect the symptoms of menopause, because they can bind to estrogen receptors and have a similar, although less potent, effect to estrogen. However, the research is not conclusive on this yet. Although none of the studies reported adverse effects as a result of flaxseed, the effectiveness of the supplement remains unclear. Some studies have found that flaxseed supplementation could decrease vasomotor symptoms of menopause (e.g., hot flashes, night sweats),[1][2][3] but others have concluded that it had no effect or an effect too small to be of clinical significance.[4][5]
Can flaxseed improve the symptoms of menopause?
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•Last Updated: April 23, 2025
Flaxseed contains phytoestrogens that may influence menopause symptoms by binding to estrogen receptors, but research on its effectiveness is inconclusive. Although some studies have suggested that it may reduce vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes, others indicate minimal or no significant effects.