Many people are aware of the extensive health benefits of flaxseed oil, such as helping to control high blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels and guarding against heart disease. Other benefits that might not be as well known is how flaxseed oil protests against the effects of bacteria and fungi, and it combats inflammation of the joints. There are many other benefits of taking flaxseed oil as a nutritional supplement, but one that may not be as well known is taking flaxseed oil to combat infertility.
How Flaxseed Oil Enhances Fertility
Flaxseed oil is chock full of essential fatty acids, and its hormone-balancing lignans and phytoestrogens helpt to stabilize a woman’s estrogen-progesterone ratio. It can also improve the quality of the cervical mucus, an essential part of conception. The essential fatty acids help improve uterine function, but flaxseed oil is an equal opportunity nutritional supplement. In addition to helping keep a woman’s hormonal balance in check, flaxseed oil also helps a man’s sperm stay healthy and reduces inflammation of the prostate. It is also thought to reduce impotence.
What Exactly Is Flaxseed Oil?
The flaxseed plant is thought to have originated in Egypt and today grows in North America and Canada. Its fibers have been used for basic linen, but the oil is obtained from the seeds. Flaxseed oil contains high amounts of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, the fatty acids that cannot be produced by the human body. Flaxseed oil is thought to have a beneficial effect on every cell of the human body, reducing inflammation and playing a role in protecting the body from certain fungi, viruses, and even some cancers, as well as protecting against heart disease. Indeed, the health benefits of taking flaxseed oil are too many to list.
Side Effects of Flaxseed Oil
As with many herbal supplements, flaxseed oil presents few, if any, side effects. However, it should be noted that flaxseed oil is often used to treat constipation. It works best when taken with food, but it should be taken separate from other medications as the oil may interfere with the absorption of other medications. Implementing a supplement regimen including flaxseed oil should be discussed with a health care provider.
Fertility issues are difficult to deal with, especially if no concrete reason is found for the problem. Supplements such as flaxseed oil for infertility can balance hormone levels, reduce inflammation, improve uterine function and cervical mucus, and keep sperm healthy and happy.
