Flax Seed Oil and pregnancy

Some doctors believe that pregnant women should not take flax seed oil. The main reason that some doctors don’t approve of taking flax seed oil while pregnant is because flax seed seems to have an effect on estrogen and hormones which might interfere with the body during pregnancy. Flaxseed provides lignans, phytoestrogen, which are estrogen-like phytochemicals and may alter hormonal balance during pregancy.

Since women during pregnancy and fetus are in their hormone-sensitive period, caution is advised on the dosage of flax seed intake. In animal studies, intakes of high dosages of flax seeds have caused reproductive complications. Another alternative is taking fish oil, which has been found to greatly support pregnancy and healthy baby development. It may even help prevent miscarriage. This is obviously very important. Please talk to your doctor about the effects of flax seed and pregnancy or fish oil and pregnancy before taking any supplement.

Flax Seed Oil and Breastfeeding

Little research is available concerning the safety of Flax seed oil during breastfeeding, but normal amounts are probably safe for use while breastfeeding. It is not known if higher doses (for medicinal purposes) are safe.

Please talk  with your health care provider about Flax seed oil and breastfeeding. Each woman’s situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering your current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Flax seed oil and breastfeeding in your particular situation.