Meta Information

ID:flaxseed

Name:Flaxseed

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• Linseed
• Ground Flaxseed

Intervention Type

dietary_practice

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

5

High Cost:

15

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Cost for bulk ground flaxseed or whole seeds.

Summary

Flaxseed is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, as well as lignans and dietary fiber. Its primary healthspan relevance stems from its well-documented ability to improve cardiovascular risk factors, such as lowering blood pressure and LDL cholesterol, through anti-inflammatory and lipid-modulating mechanisms.

Purpose

A source of ALA, lignans, and fiber for cardiovascular health.

Card Summary

A dietary source of ALA omega-3s, fiber, and lignans supporting cardiovascular health.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

4.5

Justification:

Provides targeted benefits for cardiovascular health via ALA, lignans, and fiber.

Evidence

Grade:

A

Score:

8.5

Justification:

Multiple human RCTs and meta-analyses confirm benefits for cardiovascular risk factors.

Safety

Score:

1

Justification:

Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) food item with minimal side effects.

Flags

• Must be consumed ground to access nutrients; whole seeds are indigestible.
• High fiber content may cause gastrointestinal discomfort if intake is increased too rapidly.
• May have a mild blood-thinning effect; use with caution if on anticoagulant medication.
• Contains phytoestrogens (lignans), a consideration for those with hormone-sensitive conditions.

Verdict

A simple, evidence-based dietary addition for cardiovascular health.

Created

2026-04-25T02:13:52.430811Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

none

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Flaxseed is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, as well as lignans and dietary fiber. Its primary healthspan relevance stems from its well-documented ability...

Typical Protocol

• Consume 1-2 tablespoons (10-20 grams) of ground flaxseed daily, mixed into food.