Effects of Flaxseed and Its Nutritional Components on the Metabolic Syndrome and Associated Risk Factors

In recent years, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome has increased considerably in most countries worldwide, with an estimated age range of 10-25% in adults. In Iran, 30% adults and 10% adolescents have the syndrome, increasing their risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular by 5- and 2-fold, respectively. Flaxseed is the worlds richest vegetable source of lignin and alpha-linolenic acid, essential fatty acids and it is a good source of dietary fiber; its possible role in prevention of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes has been reported. Also, there is evidence suggesting that this functional food can have beneficial effects in reducing the incidence of metabolic syndrome by reducing its risk factors. To better understand the beneficial effects of this functional food, this study aimed to assess the effects of flaxseed and its nutritional components on metabolic syndrome and its associated risk factors. A review of literature showed that taking flaxseed, its lignan or alpha-linolenic acid is effective in reducing the risk factors of Metabolic Syndrome, i.e abdominal obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, HDL decrease, impaired fasting glucose, and hypert-ens‌ion. Flaxseed can reverse insulin resistance and central obesity and hence, has an important role in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome. It can also reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are inter-related indications in obesity and metabolic syndrome.