| Personal Care Corner | |
What the Heck is a Lignan?
by Carrie A. Corson, from the October 2004 newsletter
When customers are trying to make a decision about just which flax oil product they should choose, they often ask, “What’s a lignan?” The labeling on bottles of flax oil brings about the question. There’s simple flax oil, high lignan flax oil, highest lignan flax oil and even ultra lignan flax oil. So it can be a bit confusing if one isn't sure what a lignan is and why they might want to consume them.
Lignans are actually antioxidant and phytoestrogens found in a variety of plants, which includes flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, rye, soybeans, broccoli and some berries. However, flax has a much higher concentration of lignans than other foods. Lignans, and their effect on estrogen receptors are currently being studied for their potential anticancer properties. Flax is also rich in the lignans secoisolariciresinol diglycoside or SDG and secoisolariciresinol or Seco. These potent antioxidants work throughout our bodies to scavenge free radicals, which can damage tissue and are thought to play a role in the pathology of many diseases.
Not all flax oil is lignan rich. Much of the lignan content may be lost during the filtration process. So if lignans are what you are looking for, look for a product that is unfiltered and unrefined. Good choices from the Co-op are Barlean’s “Highest Lignan” flax oils and Spectrum’s “High Lignan” and “Ultra Lignan.” These are available in liquid and in softgel capsules. You will also find high lignan flax oil capsules from Natural Factors.
Flax seeds are also an excellent source of lignans. Keep in mind that in order to obtain maximum benefit, it is important to grind the flax seed. Pre-ground products are available from Barlean’s. Their Forti-Flax is carefully processed to “liberate” naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, amino acids lignans and phytonutrients without damaging Omega 3 fatty acids. Flax meal from Bob’s Red Mill is also available at the Co-op. If you choose to buy whole flax seeds and grind them yourself, a coffee grinder or small food processor works well.
The Flax Council of Canada is an excellent source for more information regarding the benefits of flax. Barlean’s also has a very informative Web site.
Sources:
Natural Foods Merchandiser, Marilyn Sterling, R.D. September 2004
The Flax Council of Canada
Barlean’s Organic Oils
Spectrum Organics
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