How to Use Flaxseeds for Irregular Periods

Flaxseeds, also known as flax and linseeds, are nutrient-dense superfoods that have hormone balancing properties! In this article, let’s see how to use flaxseeds for irregular periods.

Benefits of Flaxseeds for Menstruation

You might have heard of using flaxseeds to manage weight, improve cholesterol levels and lower risk of heart disease. But did you know that these tiny seeds can help regulate irregular periods and help with bad PMS symptoms?

Here are some of the reasons flaxseeds helps promote regular and healthy menstruation:

• Balances hormones. Flaxseeds contain natural phytoestrogens that mimic estrogen in our bodies. Those with high levels of androgens and low levels of estrogen such as women with PCOS can benefit from balancing their estrogen levels. This will help induce ovulation and periods. 

• Promotes ovulation. Adding flaxseeds to your diet will make your ovulation regular. One study found in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism showed that women who regularly consumed flaxseed powder during every menstrual cycle ovulated. However, when they followed their regular low-fiber diet, they did not ovulate during 3 of their 36 menstrual cycles. 

• Boosts fertility. Women with irregular periods suffer from infertility in most cases. Research shows that women who consumed flaxseed powder had longer luteal phases, which is the phase of the menstrual cycle between ovulation and the start of the menstrual period. Short luteal phases sometimes means infertility.

• Helps with breast tenderness/pain. Flaxseeds also reduce PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness, discomfort and pain. A research published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Canada, shows that consuming about 25 grams of flaxseed daily for three months helps women who suffer from breast pain and discomfort in the beginning days of their periods. 

• Reduces period cramps. Research suggest adding 1-2 teaspoons of flaxseed to your diet can help reduce cramps during menstruation. This is because flaxseeds are rich in omega 3 fatty acids that may slow the release of prostaglandins that are responsible for causing cramps due to contraction of the uterus during menstruation.

How to Use Flaxseeds for Irregular Periods 

Flaxseeds should be consumed regularly, preferably daily to help balance hormones and boost menstruation. Consume around 40 grams of flaxseed powder daily for best results. 

Where to Get Ground Flaxseed

Our bodies have a hard time digesting the shell of flaxseeds so it’s best to consume ground flaxseed also known as flaxseed powder. Here’s a high quality NON-GMP brand of ground flaxseed that you can purchase for daily consumption!

Ways to Use Flaxseeds for Irregular Periods

Here’s how to use flaxseeds for irregular periods:

• Add to smoothies. Add one teaspoon of flaxseed powder to your morning smoothie. Here’s a delicious recipe you can use: PCOS-Friendly Breakfast Smoothie Recipe 

• Make pancakes. Mix together almond flour, 2 teaspoons flaxseed powder, enough water, 2 mashed bananas and sweetener if desired. Use as pancake batter. 

• Add to your oatmeal. Enjoy oatmeal in the morning? Add 1 tsp of flaxseed powder to it and reap the benefits! 

Also Read:

• Top 8 Herbs to Bring On Menstruation Naturally
• 5 Best Supplements for Irregular Periods
• Dangers of Eating Rancid Flaxseeds and Flaxseed Oil