Caution should be used when self-medicating for depression, and treatment should be limited to short periods of time. Certain diseases such as thyroid disease and other hormonal abnormalities can cause depression, and this would call for treatment of the underlying disease instead of symptomatic treatment of the depression. Depression can also be caused by certain prescription medications. A physician should always supervise treatment of serious forms of depression. More than half of the fat in flaxseed is an omega-3 fatty acid, and therefore it has some properties in common with fish oil .
Flaxseed is high in both soluble and insoluble fiber.
Most of the soluble fiber in flaxseed is mucilage. The soluble fiber is associated with a cholesterol lowering effect. Insoluble fiber is useful as a bulk laxative and in the prevention of constipation. The insoluble fiber has the tendency to hold water, softening the stool and allowing it to move through the colon more quickly. Flaxseed should be taken with ample fluids in order to prevent constipation or blockage of the intestine.