The lignans contained in flaxseed are phytoestrogens that can exert weak estrogenic effects and also antiestrogenic effects when binding to estrogen receptors. However, there is no clear research on the effect that flaxseed could have on sex hormones like testosterone or estrogen. A meta-analysis from 2023 found that flaxseed supplementation had no effect on testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).[1] However, some concerns still exist regarding flaxseed supplementation during pregnancy and whether it could affect male fertility.[2][1]
References
- ^Musazadeh V, Nazari A, Natami M, Hajhashemy Z, Kazemi KS, Torabi F, Moridpour AH, Vajdi M, Askari GThe effect of flaxseed supplementation on sex hormone profile in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.Front Nutr.(2023)
- ^Carraro, JCC et alFlaxseed and Human Health: Reviewing Benefits and Adverse EffectsFood Reviews International.(2012-02-09)