Effect of Linseed (Seed of Flax) on Blood Lipid Levels

Linseed (seed of flax) contains high amounts of ω-3 Fatty acids, which is said to have antihyperlipidemic effects. In this study, blood lipid levels (Triglycerids, Cholesterol, LDL, HDL) of 56 hyperlipidemic patients were measured before and after Linseed administration (6 gr linseed powder daily as a biscuit formulation for 3 months as a supplementation to their simple diet). The results were analysed by t-test using SPSS software. There were some decreases in the mean level of serum total cholesterol (about 10% decrease, P=0.001), mean serum triglyceride (about 12% decrease, P=0.001), and mean serum LDL (about 10% decrease, P=0.001) before and after Linseed administration. The total-Cholesterol/HDL and LDL/HDL ratios decreased concordantly as well. However, there was no significant alteration in serum HDL level after linseed administration. Linseed administration combined with a simple diet, clinically decreases blood lipid levels. Hence, supplementation of simple diet with 6 gr Linseed powder daily, seems to be helpful in reducing patients blood lipid levels.