How long until flax meal 'takes effect'?

[filled.up.with.love]

I am trying the cereal for the first time this morning. 1/2 cup of flax meal in there. I just want to plan my day correctly and not be out on the tennis court or something when the effects of the fiber 'hit' if you know what I mean! So, am I looking at an hour or two or 1/2 day or what?

[Georgiana]

I don't think you can 'plan' it. For example, flax has absolutely no effect on me. However, my parents and my brother spend their day in the bathroom after eating 1-2 tablespoons.

[momtomany1]

I have never timed it.. sorry.. but I am concerned about a whole half cup at one time, the first time. I can't find any references, but if you are not used to getting a lot of fiber, that is a lot of ounces to start off with. You might end up with 'issues' like gas. Generally, the recommended dose is just a couple of ounces!

I use flax in moderation, and stools stay soft and regular.

[jaybee007]

It depends on how sensitive your digestive system is, so perhaps go easy this time around and eat a little bit to see the effects it has on you.

Where does everyone get their flax meal from?

[momtomany1]

They carry flax seeds in grocery stores, health food stores, and even at the 'day old bakery outlet' around here, and I grind them in a coffee grinder. The high fat content makes the meal spoil quickly, go rancid? so I prefer seeds and store in the freezer.

It has been reported that Gandhi once said, “Wherever flaxseeds become a regular food item among the people, there will be better health.”

[determined2shrink]

I thought you were suppose to start with 1 tablespoon the first day and then up it by tablespoons each day until it works.

[filled.up.with.love]

I get a pretty good deal of fiber in my diet already so I wasn't super-worried, but I did want to make sure it wasn't like eating 1/2 a jar of Metamucil or something . So far so good. Thank you for all the great advice - I love this place!

[Sherri]

Originally Posted by jaybee007

It depends on how sensitive your digestive system is, so perhaps go easy this time around and eat a little bit to see the effects it has on you.

Where does everyone get their flax meal from?

I use this brand www.bobsredmill.com . I find it in my grocers in the organic section.
Sherri