Freshly ground flax seeds play a double-role in breast cancer prevention.
Around 70% of breast cancer tumours are estrogen-dependent. You might hear them referred to as estrogen-receptor-positive or ER+. This means that they grow when estrogen binds to them.
Estrogen is an important hormone — we need it for growth and reproduction. But having too much can increase the growth of Estrogen-receptor cancers. Here’s where the flax seed comes in.
First, flax is a great source of fibre. It helps your body clear out extra estrogen by moving it through your digestive system.
Second, flax seed contains natural chemicals called phytoestrogens. These plant based chemicals can fit into estrogen receptors in the body. When they do this, they block the sites so that the body’s stronger estrogens can’t bind. In essence they block the signal that would tell cancer cells to grow.
The oils in flax seeds get broken down by light, oxygen, and heat. You’ll get the best nutritional value from grinding your seeds at home and consuming them within 15 minutes of grinding. (A coffee grinder dedicated to seeds and herbs is great for this job). If this isn’t feasible for you, buy pre-ground flax seeds that are vacuum packed. Keep them sealed in the fridge or freezer. You’ll lose some of the nutritional value this way, but you’ll still get the fibre. The same goes for baking — the heat will damage some of the nutrients but you’ll still benefit from the fibre.
Aim to eat 2 tbsp of freshly ground flax seeds per day. Add them to smoothies or sprinkle them onto salads or cereal. Drink plenty of water over the day to keep them moving through your digestive system. (You run the risk of becoming constipated if you consume the seeds without water).
You might find that 2 tbsp is a lot. If you’re not used to this much fibre, start with less — perhaps 1/2 or 1 tbsp. You can increase as your body gets used to it.
In health,
Dr. Rachel VandenBerg, ND
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