The flax-Dr. Atkins link.
Dr. Atkins writes about flax in his
Vita-Nutrient Solutions Book.
Quote:
Ch 8: Digestive Aids
"The various fibers and fatty acids in freshly ground flaxmeal are extremely effective in relieving constipation and inflammatory bowel problems. Even better, these pulverized seeds contain lignans, compounds that help promote female hormone balance and reduce the risk of female hormone-related cancers. This dual action makes flax my fiber of choice for management of such cancers, as well as PMS, fibroids, endometriosis, menopausal symptoms, and a range of other problems reltated to female hormonal balance."
"I usually recommend 1-3 tablespoons per day dissolved in water or mixed with semisolid food such as sour cream."
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So for female hormonal problems, Dr. Atkins recommended 1-3 tablespoons per day.
Quote:
From Atkins Diabetes Solution: Ch 15. Fiber Facts
"To increase dietary fiber, try a dose of crushed flaxseeds or unprocessed bran. Both these excellent natural remedies for constipation are available at any health food store. Stir 2 teaspoons of flaxseeds into a glass of water and drink it down in the evening, or sprinkle them on your salad at dinner--you'll probably get results the next morning."
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And for constipation, he recommended 2 teaspoons per day.
I was around when the flax craze hit the market. At that time, it was a boon to low carbers because it made a fairly decent flour substitute. I'm not sure when it happened, but I think it was because flax was being used by many Atkineers that it became more of a food than a fiber supplement, as Dr. Atkins wrote in his books. I do recall that folks were saying that flax was Dr. Atkins "fiber of choice". And that's not entirely true because in DANDR, psyllium is his fiber of choice. Flax was is choice for the management of female cancers and female hormonal issues, according to
VitaNutrient Solution.
And it's very clear that he put limits on the amount of flax to consume daily, in both DANDR and VNS.
Flax usage is a personal thing. As I stated in the other thread, I read up on it and made my decision to limit its use. Strangely enough, I began reading on it when I read a flax cookbook, looking for recipes and ideas.