Functional Components of Flaxseed and their Role in Enhancing the Health Status of Humans

Abstract

The growing interest in nutrition has increased the importance of functional foods for the prevention and treatment of diseases. Functional foods are those foods that contain functional elements which not only fulfil the body’s nutrient requirements but provide additional health benefits to maintain health status. Nowadays, flaxseed is gaining popularity due to its unique nutritional profile. It represents a rich nutritional profile which includes protein, phenolic compounds, dietary fiber and a notable amount of omega-3-fatty acids. These nutrients make flaxseed an essential functional food to regulate body functions and to use for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. The presence of lignans makes it useful for treating diabetes, certain types of cancer, and cardiovascular diseases; similarly, alpha-linolenic acid and dietary fiber help in the regulation of blood lipid levels and glucose levels and help to control appetite. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of flaxseed are due to the presence of phytochemicals. Therefore, regular consumption of flaxseed helps to slow down the onset of many metabolic diseases, regulate the body’s metabolic pathways, reduce inflammatory markers, and influence the early markers of cancer (colon and breast). There are many studies that indicate the beneficial effect of flaxseed on both human and animal health. This review explains the different functional components of flaxseed and the functional role of flaxseed in elevating health status.