Side effects of flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil is a plant oil rich in omega-3 fatty acids, offering numerous health benefits such as improving heart health and reducing inflammation. It is beneficial to the body when consumed in appropriate amounts. However, excessive or improper use may also cause some side effects. Flaxseed oil may cause diarrhea, bloating, or gastrointestinal discomfort, especially in individuals who are new to its consumption or ingest excessive amounts. Additionally, the soluble dietary fiber in flaxseed oil can stimulate intestinal motility, leading to increased gas production and possible bloating. In some cases, excessive consumption may even cause intestinal obstruction. Flaxseed oil has anticoagulant properties and may interact with certain medications (e.g., anticoagulants), increasing the risk of bleeding. Therefore, patients currently taking such medications should use flaxseed oil cautiously under medical supervision. Moreover, long-term excessive consumption of flaxseed oil may lead to obesity, as it contains a certain amount of fat. Overconsumption can increase cholesterol levels in the blood, potentially triggering cardiovascular diseases.