Subgroup analyses showed that using whole flaxseed in doses ≥30 g d-1 , longer-term interventions ( ≥12 weeks ) and studies including participants with higher BMI ( ≥ 27 kg m-2 ) had positive effects on body composition  .
Whole flaxseed is a good choice for weight management particularly for weight reduction in overweight and obese participants
Flaxseed consumption may be inversely associated with obesity ; however , findings of available r and omized controlled trials ( RCTs ) are conflicting .
The present study aim ed to systematic ally review and analyse RCTs assessing the effects of flaxseed consumption on body weight and body composition .
Flaxseed dietary fibers lower cholesterol and increase fecal fat excretion, but magnitude of effect depend on food type
Background Dietary fibers have been proposed to play a role in cardiovascular risk as well as body weight management . Flaxseeds are a good source of dietary fibers , and a large proportion of these are water-soluble viscous fibers . Method Here , we examine the effect of flaxseed dietary fibers in different food matrices on blood lipids and fecal excretion of fat and energy in a double-blind r and omized crossover study with 17 subjects . Three different 7-d diets were tested : a low-fiber control diet ( Control ) , a diet with flaxseed fiber drink ( 3/day ) ( Flax drink ) , and a diet with flaxseed fiber bread ( 3/day ) ( Flax bread ) . Total fat and energy excretion was measured in feces , blood sample s were collected before and after each period , and appetite sensation registered 3 times daily before main meals . Results Compared to control , Flax drink lowered fasting total-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol by 12 and 15 % , respectively , ( p < 0.01 ) , whereas Flax bread only produced a reduction of 7 and 9 % , respectively ( p < 0.05 ) . Fecal fat and energy excretion increased by 50 and 23 % with Flax drink consumption compared to control ( p < 0.05 ) , but only fecal fat excretion was increased with Flax bread compared to control ( p < 0.05 ) . Conclusion Both Flax drink and Flax bread result ed in decreased plasma total and LDL-cholesterol and increased fat excretion , but the food matrix and /or processing may be of importance . Viscous flaxseed dietary fibers may be a useful tool for lowering blood cholesterol and potentially play a role in energy balance . Trial Registration Clinical Trials.gov :
Subgroup analyses showed that using whole flaxseed in doses ≥30 g d-1 , longer-term interventions ( ≥12 weeks ) and studies including participants with higher BMI ( ≥ 27 kg m-2 ) had positive effects on body composition  .
Whole flaxseed is a good choice for weight management particularly for weight reduction in overweight and obese participants
Flaxseed consumption may be inversely associated with obesity ; however , findings of available r and omized controlled trials ( RCTs ) are conflicting .
The present study aim ed to systematic ally review and analyse RCTs assessing the effects of flaxseed consumption on body weight and body composition .