Flaxseeds were one of the first foods to ever be considered to be “health foods”, treasured for their purported healing properties since at least Ancient Greek times.

Flaxseeds are one of the richest plant sources of essential omega-3 fatty acids, as well as, more importantly, their highly-rich lignan content.

So what are lignans?

Lignans are phytoestrogens that can dampen the effects of the body’s own estrogen. It has long been known that higher estrogen hormone has been associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. This is why scientific studies have shown that eating a daily tablespoonful of ground flaxseeds may reduce breast cancer risk in women.

How about for the guys? Can Flaxseed consumption prevent cancers in men? A small study of men with precancerous prostate changes (prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia) was asked to eat 3 tablespoons of flaxseed a day. After 6 months, there was a significant drop in their PSA levels (a blood test that determines prostate activity including prostate cancer) and biopsy cell-proliferation rates.

Bottom line: Current evidence suggests that flaxseed is a safe, low-cost source of nutrition that may reduce breast and prostate cancer proliferation rates.

Why not give it a go? Just make sure to buy them preground (or grind them up yourself) so that your body absorbs all the good micronutrients. A tablespoon a day in your coffee, yoghurt or cereal may literally go a long way in your life.