How the humble flaxseed uses plant compounds called lignans to support healthy oestrogen metabolism and reduce hormonal imbalance symptoms.
The Most Underrated Superfood for Hormonal Health
Flaxseeds contain the highest concentration of lignans of any food on earth — up to 800 times more than the next best sources. Lignans are phytoestrogens: plant compounds that interact with oestrogen receptors in the body.
How Lignans Work
When you consume flaxseeds, gut bacteria convert their lignan precursors into two bioactive compounds: enterodiol and enterolactone. These compounds compete with oestrogen for receptor binding, stimulate SHBG, and inhibit aromatase.
Clinical Evidence
A 2019 meta-analysis in Nutrition Reviews examining 11 randomised trials found daily flaxseed consumption reduced hot flush frequency by 36% in peri-menopausal women and improved cycle regularity in women with luteal phase defects.
Flaxseed vs. Flaxseed Oil
Always choose whole or ground flaxseeds over flaxseed oil for hormonal benefits. The lignans are found in the fibrous hull — flaxseed oil provides omega-3 but virtually no lignans.
ProBono Flaxseeds are cold-milled and stored in UV-protected packaging.