New study reveals that Flaxseed not helpful for Hot Flashes

According to a new study, flaxseed consumption was not quite beneficial in relieving hot flashes among breast cancer patients and postmenopausal women. The study published in the current online version of the journal Menopause, has been conducted by Mayo Clinic physician and researcher Sandhya Pruthi, M.D. and colleagues and the North Central Cancer Treatment Group (NCCTG).
From Oct to Dec 2009, 188 women were followed in the randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Between women taking flaxseed and those on placebo, there was no statistically significant difference in mean hot flash scores. Mayo Clinic investigators published preliminary data in 2007 which had indicated that a daily consumption of 40 grams of crushed flaxseed might aid the management of hot flashes.

Dr. Pruthi, of Mayo Clinic’s Breast Diagnostic Clinic says, “Hot flashes are common among women during the menopause transition or following breast cancer treatment. While preliminary data from our 2007 pilot study showed a reduction in hot flashes associated with the consumption of ground flaxseed, our new study did not result in a significant decrease in hot flashes with eating flaxseed compared to placebo.”

Dr. Pruthi opines that patients who relish flaxseed should not discontinue its consumption. Dr. Pruthi says, “Flaxseed may be beneficial for people who want to add fiber and bulk to their diet to manage constipation, but more research is needed to identify whether flaxseed has any other health benefits.”