Reading 7 min. Views 3.5k. Published on 05.04.2019
Is it useful linseed oil during pregnancy, is it possible to prevent the appearance of stretch marks with it and what problems can arise if you take it in unlimited quantities - this is our article.
What is included in the product
Flaxseed oil is rich in vitamins A, E, B, F. It contains magnesium, zinc, iron and phosphorus. But its main value is Omega fatty acids (3, 6, 9). They are not produced by the body, we can only get them with food.
Omega fatty acids are involved in most processes in our body. They are especially necessary for the brain. Flaxseed oil contains three times more of them than fish oil.
The composition of the oil includes arachidic, behenic, stearic acids. It is also rich in phospholipids.
Benefits of flaxseed oil for expectant mothers
Women in position have to adjust their lifestyle and diet. Do not take medicines or multivitamin complexes without consulting a doctor. Therefore, doubts about whether flaxseed oil is possible for pregnant women are well founded.
If you decide to “nourish” the body with flax seed oil, first consult with the doctor leading the pregnancy. As a rule, in the absence of contraindications, expectant mothers are allowed to use it.
What is the product for mom and baby:
- Vessel cleansing promotes better blood supply to the body of the woman's placenta. Consequently, the fetus receives more oxygen and nutrients.
- Reducing the risk of blood clots.
- Normalization of metabolism and other vital processes that have "lost" due to hormonal changes.
- Immunity Boost which is very important for a pregnant woman. Any SARS can adversely affect the development of the fetus.
- Relief from constipation. Unfortunately, this problem is familiar to many women in position.
Omega 3, 6, 9 fatty acids contribute to the proper formation nervous system and structures of the baby's brain.
The product is an excellent prevention of placental insufficiency, diabetes. It improves mood, prevents depression, and minimizes the effects of stress.
You can start taking flaxseed oil at early dates pregnancy, but it is better to wait until the second trimester. Sometimes the use of flaxseed oil for the first week of gestation can cause a miscarriage.
Admission Restrictions
You should not drink flaxseed oil if you have chronic pancreatitis or gallstones. It has a choleretic effect, which can lead to blockage of the gallbladder ducts. This condition requires surgical intervention, which is dangerous during pregnancy.
If you are prone to digestive disorders, you should not use the product either. It is an excellent stool softener, which will exacerbate the problem. Any diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in the acute stage are considered contraindications.
Taking drugs that lower blood pressure is another contraindication to the use of flaxseed oil. It has a hypotonic effect and enhances the effect of medications.
When taking flaxseed oil in the later stages (III trimester), there is a high risk of premature birth. The combination of its active substances leads to an increase in the tone of the muscles of the uterus, and can activate labor.
It is necessary to refuse to take the oil if you are allergic to the components of the composition, with increased blood clotting, kidney stones.
Possible side effects
If the dosage is not observed or taken too often, flaxseed oil can provoke the following disorders:
- Nausea, sometimes vomiting. They can be provoked by an expired product, be careful.
- Diarrhea. Usually occurs when taking larger doses than prescribed.
- Allergy. Manifested by itching or redness.
If one or more symptoms occur, you should temporarily stop taking the oil.
How to drink flaxseed oil
The oil is available in liquid form or in capsules. It can be bought at a pharmacy or an eco-market, grocery stores. The dosage for a liquid product is 1-2 tablespoons per day, for capsules - two per day.
Flaxseed oil for pregnant women should be drunk twice a day with or after meals. Fasting is prohibited.
If the expectant mother has no problems with stool, one tablespoon of oil per day or one capsule is prescribed. For elimination delicate issue Take two tablespoons a day or two capsules.
Flaxseed oil can be used as a dressing for salads, cereals, herbs or nuts. But it is not advisable to add it to hot dishes. Some expectant mothers spread the product on bread and replace it with breakfast.
The course of admission lasts a month, then a break of 30 days is necessary. Repeated admission should be coordinated with the gynecologist leading the pregnancy.
How to use the product for cosmetic purposes
- oil is applied to slightly damp, steamed skin after a shower;
- rub in circular massage movements, lightly pressing;
- problem areas - hips, abdomen, chest.
The oil does not need to be washed off the body. It is best to apply it 30 minutes before bedtime.
The product can be used to care for dry skin on the body, especially on the elbows or heels. One or two drops are applied to slightly damp skin after taking a bath.
Flaxseed oil can help restore brittle, prone to hair loss. It nourishes the scalp and hair follicles. Hair stops breaking, the ends do not split.
Is it possible for pregnant women to flax seeds
Flax seeds are no less useful than oil. They contain lignates. They are able to prevent cancer, normalize hormonal levels.
The seeds are rich in fiber. It helps to cleanse the body, normalize digestion. Flaxseed is a source of vegetable protein that is beneficial for pregnant women.
Of course, they contain Omega fatty acids and vitamins, micro and macro elements, just like in oil.
Flax seeds during pregnancy will have a beneficial effect on the woman's body and the fetus. But their reception is possible only after consulting a doctor, as they have a number of contraindications.
These include:
- cholelithiasis;
- increased tone of the uterus, the threat of abortion;
- hormonal disruptions;
- fibroma of the uterus;
- problems with the urinary tract.
If there are no contraindications, the doctor approved the reception, you can safely take decoctions from flax seeds.
The benefits of flax seeds during childbearing
Flaxseed improves the elasticity of blood vessels, normalizes blood pressure. It relieves constipation, flatulence, bloating. Restore the intestinal microflora, will be an excellent prevention of dysbacteriosis.
When taking flax seeds, it is important to observe the drinking regimen. You need to drink about 1.5 liters of pure water per day. Otherwise, the proper therapeutic effect may not be.
Flaxseed decoctions are an excellent prevention that often develops during pregnancy. They help to remove carcinogens from the body. The flax seed has the same useful qualities, which is the oil obtained from it.
How to cook flaxseed
Flax seeds no more than a teaspoon can be used as an additive to salads, cereals, meat dishes. They can be mixed with cottage cheese and herbs.
Infusion
- Put a tablespoon of seeds in a thermos.
- Pour in a glass of boiling water.
- Leave overnight, additionally wrapped.
- In the morning, strain and drink the infusion at breakfast.
Decoction
- A tablespoon of the seed is placed in an enamel pan, poured with 200 milliliters of boiling water.
- Cook over low heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- When the broth has cooled, it is filtered, poured into a clean bowl.
- Take 100 milliliters with food twice a day.
The product can be stored in the refrigerator.
The seeds ground with a blender or coffee grinder can be added to kefir, juices or diluted in warm boiled water. Usually grind a tablespoon of seeds and divide into 1-2 doses.
Conclusion
Flaxseed oil is rich in vital substances: Omega 3, 6, 9 fatty acids, vitamins.
It can improve the functioning of the whole organism. Its reception guarantees the normal formation of the brain and nervous system of the fetus.
But the healing oil has a number of contraindications to ignore which are dangerous for the health of the woman and the unborn baby.
The waiting period for a baby is a special time for every woman. For some, it is remembered by terrible toxicosis, for another by strange eating habits, but, undoubtedly, for everyone, this is the time of carefully planned, proper nutrition, because the future of your child depends on it. You can list products that deserve to be on the table of a pregnant woman for a long time, but now I want to talk about vegetable oils. Everyone, without exception, knows about the undoubted benefits of such a product as, for example, olive oil. It is recommended to be used by both doctors and cosmetologists, which does not raise doubts about taking this remedy. Is it possible to drink flaxseed oil during pregnancy - a question that is asked by the doctor very often, because it has no less useful properties than its more famous relatives.
When is linseed oil for pregnant women banned?
I would like to say right away that this drug can be used only after consulting a doctor who observes pregnancy, and there are a number of reasons for this. Flaxseed oil, both during pregnancy and not only, can cause a lot of problems if you suffer from one of the following ailments:
- Cholecystitis and pancreatitis in the acute stage. In general, for any problems with the gallbladder or pancreas, it is better to postpone taking this product. Flaxseed oil during pregnancy contributes to the active production of bile. If you have stones in your inflamed gallbladder, then there is a high probability that they can clog the bile duct, and then the expectant mother will not only experience severe pain, but also urgent hospitalization.
- Digestive disorder. Due to the fact that flaxseed oil enhances intestinal motility, diarrhea is a contraindication that cannot be ignored during pregnancy.
- Any bowel disease in the acute stage. Is it possible for pregnant women to take flaxseed oil, if a woman has aggravated, for example, enterocolitis, any doctor will give a negative answer. Taking this remedy will only aggravate the already difficult situation of the pregnant woman.
- Third trimester of pregnancy. Strange as it may sound, but flaxseed oil during late pregnancy can cause premature birth. Scientists have proven that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, together with vitamins E and A, which are abundant in oil, have a negative effect on the muscles of the uterus, which can lead to an increase in its motor activity.
Perhaps this is all the contraindications when taking this drug by future mothers.
Benefits of flaxseed oilAnd here is a list of those conditions in which this product is recommended to be taken:
- Effective fight against this disease is one of the greatest advantages of flaxseed oil. As a result of proper use, flaxseed oil during pregnancy can cleanse the body of constipation no worse than an enema. It is drunk on an empty stomach, after 30 minutes it is washed down with a glass of boiled water, and the effect of it occurs in about an hour. It is recommended to take flaxseed oil during pregnancy both in the morning and in the evening, two tablespoons each.
- Cleansing of blood vessels from plaques.
- Immunity boost.
- Prevention, etc.
How to drink linseed oil during pregnancy if there are no problems with bowel movements? - one tablespoon a day as dressings for salads, etc. For prevention, the course of taking this product is 1 month.
In pharmacies, you can now easily find flaxseed oil in capsules, which can also be taken during pregnancy. Women in position are advised to take it for a month, two capsules a day: in the morning and in the evening.
In addition, do not forget that flaxseed oil helps with stretch marks during pregnancy, but you need to start using it as soon as you see two stripes on the test. To do this, one or two tablespoons of oil must be rubbed into the skin of the chest, abdomen and buttocks. However, it is worth remembering that the procedure must be carried out immediately after a shower, and the skin must be wet before applying the oil.
So, no matter how useful linseed oil is, it is always worth remembering the measure. Use this remedy only in the dosages indicated above, because the consequences misapplication can be very deplorable.
A pregnant woman involuntarily begins to think about the benefits and harms of the products or medications that she is going to use. And all because it is she who is responsible for the little life within herself. The first thing it comes into contact with future mom, this is a decrease in the effectiveness of the immune system, disturbed metabolic processes and "hormonal" storms. As a result, problems with digestion, lack of vitamins and deterioration begin. appearance skin and hair.
In search of life-saving remedies, pregnant women are often introduced to linseed oil. It is an inexhaustible source of essential omega fatty acids and vitamins. Its benefits for the body are quite difficult to exaggerate, and many women use it. But is it possible to use flaxseed oil during pregnancy? What benefit does it bring to the lady "in position" and to her child? And are there any contraindications for this miraculous oil from flax seeds?
The effect of flaxseed oil on pregnancy and child development
Linseed oil has been obtained by pressing the seeds of common flax (Latin linum usitatissimum) for over 5,000 years. The mountainous places of India and China are considered to be the birthplace of this ancient plant. Cultivating crops of the Lnov family in Kievan Rus began in the 10th century. And soon linseed oil became the subject of trade and payment of taxes. It was eaten for a surge of strength, prolongation of youth and to eliminate digestive problems. Over time, linseed oil began to displace sunflower and corn oil, and its former popularity has sunk into oblivion. Its healing properties have replaced the popular colored vitamins and "overseas" dietary supplements. Fortunately, the world's medical research and nutritionists have begun to actively study the properties of this forgotten oil. And now supporters healthy lifestyle life often resort to this food product, and at the same time universal cosmetic product. Therefore, during pregnancy, the use of flax seed oil to activate immunity and metabolism becomes very important.
Interesting! A mixture of flaxseed oil and garlic treats runny nose and sinusitis.
The chemical composition of linseed oil
The use of flaxseed oil during pregnancy is justified by the presence of a wide range of useful substances and the absence of synthetic additives. Its rational use has a positive effect on the general well-being of a woman during pregnancy and on the development of the fetus. True, "linen" treatment is carried out in accordance with the doctor's recommendations and within a strictly limited time frame. Flaxseed oil also helps to survive postpartum period recovery and the entire period of lactation. But more on that later.
What is the uniqueness of linseed oil? And why should you drink flaxseed oil during pregnancy? To understand this, let's look at this product from a chemical point of view.
Flaxseed oil consists of such biologically active elements:
- fats: Omega-3, Omega-6, Omega-7, Omega-9;
- fatty acids: myristic, palmitic, arachidic, behenic, stearic, lignoceric;
- mineral complex: zinc, phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium, sodium, aluminum, silicon, copper, chromium, selenium, lead, manganese, molybdenum, tin, cobalt, bismuth;
- vitamins: B1, B2, B6, B9, K, E, F, PP, C, beta-carotene;
- phytosterols;
- enzymes;
- organic acids
- lecithin;
The vitamin complex in the composition of linseed oil controls the processes in the metabolic and hormonal systems. Participates in biochemical processes and replenishes the body with all the vitamins that are not synthesized in the body on its own.
Minerals are responsible for most processes in the body. They contribute to the full movement of oxygen, high-quality blood formation and the normal functioning of the nervous system, which is especially important during pregnancy.
Phytosterols, otherwise sterols, replace "bad" cholesterol with good. They also normalize the venous network and vascular tone.
There are more omega fatty acids in flaxseed oil than in fat. marine fish. They provide the production of prostaglandins, which, in turn, are vital for the body to synthesize vitamins and hormones. Deficiency of polyunsaturated acids is fraught with jumps blood pressure and nervous disorders.
Lecithin plays the role of a transport system in the body for all nutrients. In addition, the liver, kidneys and brain tissue consists of lecithin. Its deficiency in the body of a pregnant woman can cause disorders in the development of the child from the central nervous system and blood circulation in the brain.
It's important to know! Often, women follow a strict diet during pregnancy due to toxicosis, allergies, or other complications. In this case, linseed oil can make up for the deficiency of vegetable fats and vitamins.
Benefits of flaxseed oil for pregnancy
When a woman is registered, she is immediately prescribed folic acid and vitamin E, in order to prevent malformations in the baby or spontaneous abortion. Women immediately go to the pharmacy and buy beautiful packages with prescribed vitamins. At the same time, many women do not even realize that linseed oil is natural source of these vitamins in an easily digestible form and without bright dyes. And this is only a small part of the whole list of useful qualities.
The use of flaxseed oil during pregnancy can save a woman from many problems without resorting to drugs:
- contributes to the normalization of blood pressure;
- completely relieves constipation;
- stimulates blood circulation;
- improves the production of hormones and supports the endocrine system;
- serves as a prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus;
- eliminates nausea, heartburn and other problems of the gastrointestinal tract;
- supports the nervous system;
- has an anthelmintic effect;
- removes toxic compounds from the liver;
- protects against cancerous growths;
- cleanses the skin with dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis;
- promotes the removal of plaques on the walls of blood vessels;
- Helps normal development of brain cells in the fetus:
- has an antidepressant effect;
- oil intake helps to optimally distribute adipose tissue, while preventing obesity;
- serves as a remedy for allergic reactions;
- improves retinal accommodation and color perception;
- accelerates the speed of transmission of nerve impulses;
- with varicose veins reduces the fragility of blood vessels;
- relieves bleeding gums and inflammation of the oral cavity.
Advice! It is advisable to use flaxseed oil when planning pregnancy. The use of oil will help to saturate a woman's body with important vitamins and fats, as well as improve her health. It would be useful to take prophylactic oil by the husband to improve the genetic material.
Harmful properties and contraindications of linseed oil during pregnancy
The use of flaxseed oil during pregnancy has practically no contraindications. The only barrier is individual hypersensitivity and cholelithiasis. It is recommended to postpone taking flaxseed oil if a woman has frequent bouts of diarrhea. But, in any case, before consuming linseed oil, you need to consult a doctor, since each body has its own personal characteristics.
In the last trimester, flax seed oil is best used only in cosmetic purposes. The fact is that it affects the muscles of the uterus and in high concentrations can provoke premature birth.
How to use flaxseed oil during pregnancy
Flaxseed oil is indicated during pregnancy in small quantities. The maximum allowable volume is 2 tbsp. spoons a day. Distinctive feature of this oil is that it is effective even in small portions.
How to take flaxseed oil during pregnancy correctly:
- The daily norm of linseed oil is 20 g.
- The course of preventive treatment is no more than 30 days.
- Reception on an empty stomach ensures complete absorption of the oil.
Advice! If you doubt whether flaxseed oil can be eaten during pregnancy, then consult with a therapist from a family consultation and an obstetrician-gynecologist.
Linseed oil in cooking
Linseed oil does not tolerate contact with air and high temperatures. Therefore, it is not suitable for frying, stewing, baking, as well as seasoning hot dishes. Upon contact with air, it instantly oxidizes and acquires a bitter taste and an unpleasant odor. Such oil is stored for no more than 30 days in conditions of tightness and low temperatures, that is, in the refrigerator.
How to use in the kitchen for cooking:
- vegetable and green salads;
- cold soups and sauces;
- gas stations;
- juices;
- vinaigrettes;
- combination with boiled vegetables or nuts with honey.
Advice! If you add linseed oil to fruit and vegetable salads, then vitamin A will be completely absorbed by the body from them.
Linseed oil for beauty treatments
Women who used flaxseed oil during pregnancy leave reviews unambiguously in favor of this remedy. Flaxseed oil relieves stretch marks during pregnancy and eliminates dry skin. The oil can also be used as a hair mask or body lotion. It is quickly absorbed by the skin and does not leave greasy marks on clothes. A light massage with linseed oil during lactation will help maintain the elasticity and beauty of the mammary glands.
Advice! Only cold-pressed linseed oil has the best qualities. Refined oils become "empty" after purification and do not bring benefits.
Proper use of linseed oil will bring many benefits to a pregnant woman and her unborn child. But in this matter, the main thing is not to overdo it. Remember, this oil is priceless only in small quantities. Listen to your body and the doctor's advice. And then this unique gift of nature will give you a lot of positive emotions.
Video: Linseed oil - Russian gold
Pregnancy is a special event in a woman's life, which is accompanied by a variety of emotions and feelings - joy, excitement and responsibility. Right now, the health of the growing baby depends on the lifestyle and nutrition of the expectant mother. Flaxseed oil during pregnancy is valuable for the content of omega fatty acids, which should be in the diet of every woman who is expecting a baby, along with carbohydrates and proteins.
Flaxseed oil during pregnancy is a natural tool to help regulate the body's metabolism. It acts as a prophylactic and even as a medicine for the treatment of various diseases.
But, despite the many useful properties, this product has contraindications for taking, so during pregnancy it should be consumed in a limited amount, in the amount recommended by the doctor.
Vegetable fats, like animals, are necessary for the human body, especially during pregnancy. They are a source of energy, an integral component of cells and membranes, and contribute to the full functioning of the body.
Flaxseed oil fully covers human needs for unsaturated fatty acids Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9. You can get them only with food - from fish oil or flax oil, since they are not synthesized in the body.
The lack of fatty acids leads to hypertension, impaired memory and attention, vegetovascular dystonia, diabetes mellitus, obesity, thyroid pathology, the formation of cystic changes in vital organs, and heart disease. In addition, a deficiency of fatty acids leads to changes at the cellular level, as a result of which erythrocytes can stick together and subsequently form thrombi. Also, free radicals and viruses easily settle on damaged cells, there is a decrease in immunity and dysbacteriosis. The oil used for prophylactic purposes helps to prevent all these diseases.
The effect of flaxseed oil on pregnancy
The use of linseed oil during pregnancy has a positive effect on the woman and her unborn child. It normalizes metabolic processes in the body, which may worsen or, conversely, accelerate due to changes in hormonal levels.
The unique composition of flaxseed oil helps a woman to go through hormonal changes more easily, and in the fetus, it has a positive effect on the development of brain cells.
Also, the result will be in relation to the digestive system, since during pregnancy there are often problems with bowel movements.
The use of flaxseed oil during pregnancy helps to solve the following problems without additional medication:
- getting rid of;
- normalization of blood pressure;
- improvement of blood circulation;
- support of the endocrine system;
- prevention of diabetes in pregnant women;
- elimination of gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, etc.;
- support for the nervous system;
- providing anthelmintic effect;
- improvement of liver function;
- skin cleansing from rashes and dermatitis;
- cancer prevention;
- antidepressant action;
- obesity prevention;
- reduction in vascular fragility.
Indications and contraindications
The main indications for taking flaxseed oil during pregnancy are:
- Chronic constipation.
- Prevention.
- Improving immune protection.
- Cleansing of blood vessels from plaques and prevention of thrombosis.
- Improving the development of the brain and organs of vision in the fetus.
It is worth mentioning that you can take linseed oil only after consulting a doctor, as it has contraindications in the following cases:
- Cholecystitis and pancreatitis during an exacerbation. If there are disorders in the pancreas or gallbladder, it is better to forget about taking the oil. This product activates the production of bile. In the presence of stones in the gallbladder, a blockage of its ducts can occur, and then the expectant mother runs the risk of going to the hospital with severe pain.
- Digestive disorder. Flax oil improves intestinal motility, but if a woman has a tendency to diarrhea, she does not need this useful property of the product.
- Bowel disease during an exacerbation. With an exacerbation of diseases such as enterocolitis, taking linseed oil can only worsen the course of the disease.
- Last trimester of pregnancy. In late gestation, the use of flax oil can cause premature birth. The fact is that fatty acids, coupled with vitamins A and E, which this product is rich in, can increase the activity of the uterine muscles and provoke contractions.
Methods of use and dosage
How to take flaxseed oil during pregnancy, the obstetrician-gynecologist will tell. In the absence of contraindications, for the purpose of prevention, flax oil is used by a woman every day in the form of a food supplement - 2 tbsp. l. as a dressing for salads lenten dishes and porridge for 1 month. Then you need to take a break for the same time, and if necessary, repeat the course.
In addition to oral administration, flaxseed oil is also recommended for external use to improve the condition of the skin, nails and hair. For example, rubbing oil into the skin of the chest and abdomen helps prevent the formation of stretch marks - unpleasant companions of any pregnancy. Also, the oil can relieve pain, so it is allowed to rub it into the site of a bruise or hematoma.
In a pharmacy, flaxseed oil can be purchased not only in liquid form, but also in the form of capsules. How to take flaxseed oil during pregnancy in capsules, the doctor will also tell you. Usually 1 capsule in the morning and evening for a month.
Side effects
In spite of beneficial features flax oil, we must not forget about the possible side effects. For example, an increase in intestinal motility can trigger the activation of the muscles of the uterus, resulting in spontaneous miscarriage or premature birth.
Also, oil can cause allergies associated with individual intolerance to this product by the body. It should be noted that this is rare.
Exceeding the recommended dosage of oil can increase blood clotting and lead to blood clots, lower blood pressure when it is not needed, and exacerbate the course of diseases of the digestive tract. That is why flaxseed oil, when planning pregnancy and during it, should be taken with caution, following the advice of a doctor.
Usually during pregnancy, women begin to think about proper nutrition. Expectant mothers try to build their diet from healthy foods, including those that they have not eaten before. Acquaintance with linseed oil and its properties very often occurs during pregnancy.
The benefits and harms of flaxseed oil at different stages of pregnancy
Flaxseed oil is an extremely useful product, the value of which is almost impossible to overestimate. Due to its unique composition, it has a positive effect on the body of both the mother and the developing child.
Flax seeds contain up to 48% oil, which is extracted by cold pressing.
Flaxseed oil in its biological value is in first place among vegetable oils. It received such a deservedly high rating due to the content of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.. There is more of this substance in linseed oil than even in fish. If other types of fats are found in sufficient quantities in other vegetable oils, vegetables, nuts, then no food product can compare with flaxseed oil in terms of omega-3 content. That is what makes it unique. The chemical composition of linseed oil is discussed in detail in the table.
Table: chemical composition of oil
| Component name | Properties |
Vitamins:
| Vitamins are organic or chemical compounds that are involved in the metabolic process. They regulate the course of biochemical reactions and perform an informational function for the hormonal system. Most vitamins are not synthesized in the human body on their own, so they must come from food. |
Minerals:
| Minerals (micro and macro elements) are natural compounds that are necessary for the life of the body. They provide a solid foundation for the skeleton, participate in the supply of oxygen to tissues, regulate acid-base balance, interact with hormones, vitamins and other metabolic regulators, and perform a host of other vital functions. |
Saturated fatty acids:
| Saturated fatty acids are compounds with a single bond between atoms. Most of them are found in animal fats. Saturated fatty acids provide a lot of energy for the body. In addition, they take part in the synthesis of hormones, the transfer and absorption of vitamins and trace elements, and perform other important functions. Their excess leads to an increase in blood cholesterol levels and obesity. |
Monounsaturated fatty acids:
| Unsaturated fatty acids are considered harmless to health, unlike saturated ones, and are mainly found in plant foods and fish. Monounsaturated fatty acids are characterized by the presence of one double or triple bond between atoms. They can be synthesized by the body from saturated fatty acids and carbohydrates. |
Polyunsaturated fatty acids:
| Polyunsaturated fatty acids have two or more double or triple bonds in the carbon chain. The body cannot produce these substances on its own, therefore, their entry into the body is possible only with food. |
Video: liquid Russian gold from linen
But, although flaxseed oil is considered very useful, experts differ on the advisability of its use by pregnant women. Some doctors say that it should be included in the diet because of its great benefits for mom and baby. Others mention an increased risk of miscarriage when using flaxseed oil. Such ambiguity regarding this product prompts a deeper understanding of its benefits and possible negative impacts.
Benefits for women and children
So, the use of linseed oil in food contributes to:
- lowering cholesterol levels in the blood;
- reduce the formation of blood clots in the vessels;
- normalization of the digestive system and liver;
- improving the functioning of the nervous system;
- activation of memory, attention and brain activity;
- regulation of metabolism and hormonal levels.
All this, plus rich chemical composition has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the whole organism, improves the general condition and health of a pregnant woman, increases immunity.
Repeated large-scale studies from the US, UK and Canada involving thousands of pregnant women have shown that omega-3 fatty acids, which are rich in flaxseed oil, have a positive effect on the mental development of an unborn child. It has been proven that a sufficient amount of them in a woman's body during pregnancy contributes to high level coordination and motor skills, language and communication abilities of children in the future. The opposite pattern was also deduced: with a lack of omega-3 fatty acids in the mother during pregnancy, the sociability of the born child turned out to be at a very low level, in some cases, such children even had pathological problems in establishing and maintaining contacts.
The effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids on the brain is explained by the fact that this important organ is 60% fat. In the last trimester of pregnancy, when the baby's brain is developing most actively, omega-3 fatty acids actively penetrate the placenta. In the future, with their participation, the membranes of the cerebral cortex and the developing organs of vision are formed.
Reducing cholesterol and blood clots with regular consumption of flaxseed oil helps cleanse the circulatory system and improve the supply of organs and tissues with oxygen and nutrients. Therefore, the use of flaxseed oil during pregnancy is considered a good prevention of phytoplacental insufficiency - violations of the functions of the placenta to nourish the fetus with oxygen, nutrients and excrete waste products.
For expectant mothers, the property of flaxseed oil to regulate bowel function is also important, since this problem is common especially in late pregnancy. However, there are also possible negative consequences.
Contraindications and possible negative consequences
Speaking about the dangers of flaxseed oil, you need to understand that this concept is conditional. Its excess will not be absorbed and will be excreted from the body unchanged. This product can harm if it has deteriorated. This is easy to determine by the rancid smell characteristic of vegetable oils.
Buy flaxseed oil only from trusted stores to be sure that its storage conditions are met. Check the expiration date before buying.
The following cases can be called medical contraindications in taking flaxseed oil:
- Blood clotting disorders and diseases gallbladder and pancreas. The use of flaxseed oil in such diagnoses should be approached with caution, as it can cause an exacerbation of diseases.
- Simultaneous use with certain medications: antiviral drugs, antidepressants.
- Diarrhea.
Due to the effect on blood clotting, the use of flaxseed oil in a woman should be stopped 2-3 weeks before a planned caesarean section.
The danger of uncontrolled intake of linseed oil during pregnancy is the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. The probability of such an outcome is especially high in the last months of bearing a child. During this period, the uterus reaches large sizes and presses on the intestines, bladder and other organs, causing constipation. Flaxseed oil stimulates the intestines, increasing its contractions. But this, in turn, puts pressure on the uterus, irritating its receptors and causing tone. And the tone of the uterus is fraught with abortion.
Pregnant women should always consult a doctor before taking flaxseed oil. A woman should not forget that, despite the great benefits of oil, moderation is needed in its use.
How can pregnant women use this product
The daily norm of linseed oil should not exceed 1-2 tablespoons.. This is quite enough to replenish the body's reserves of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids. The duration of prophylactic reception is 1 month. After that, you need to take a break and then, if necessary, repeat the course. For treatment, flaxseed oil should be consumed for at least 2-3 months.
like anyone natural product Flaxseed oil may cause hypersensitivity reactions in some people. Intolerance to the product is rare, but its possibility must be considered when meeting with flaxseed oil.
Flaxseed oil has almost no specific smell and taste, like, for example, sunflower oil. Therefore, it is ideal for adding to vinaigrette, cereals and other non-hot dishes. It goes well with legumes: soybeans, peas, beans, lentils. You can also drink it in small amounts as an independent product during meals.
Heat treatment of linseed oil kills all its beneficial properties, so you can not fry on it.
You can buy linseed oil in the form food product bottled or as a dietary supplement in capsules.
If a woman did not like the taste of linseed oil, then it would be optimal to buy and take this most useful product in capsules
Why You Shouldn't Drink Flaxseed Oil on an Empty Stomach for Constipation
In addition to the standard recommendation to consume flaxseed oil with meals, you can find advice on the Internet to drink it on an empty stomach. It is undeniably good for the constipation that many pregnant women experience. So, to improve intestinal motility, it is recommended to take 1 tablespoon of oil 1-2 times a day half an hour before meals. The effect will be more pronounced if you drink it both in the morning and in the evening.
However, the possibility has already been indicated above. Negative influence such intake of flaxseed oil on the outcome of pregnancy. Therefore, doctors advise using it for constipation only if the gestational age is 36 weeks or more.
For problems with bowel movements, it is better for a woman to find another, safer way to solve the problem:
- adjust your diet so that you consume as many fiber-rich foods as possible;
- drink enough liquid - about 2 liters per day;
- to live an active lifestyle.
If these simple means do not help, then to solve the difficulties with bowel movements, you should consult a doctor.
Among the safe drugs that are usually prescribed by specialists, there may be glycerin suppositories, Forlax and Duphalac.
cosmetic application
For dry skin and hair
Many women experience hair loss, brittle nails, and dry skin during pregnancy. These cosmetic problems can be solved with the help of linseed oil, which is actively used in cosmetology. It significantly improves the condition of hair and skin, helps with dryness, chapping. It is used both independently, by applying to the skin or hair for 20–25 minutes, and as one of the components in the preparation of homemade masks.
Dryness of the nasal mucosa, which in pregnant women is caused by hormonal disruptions, is also well treated by lubrication with linseed oil.
Recipe for a nourishing mask for dry and flaky skin on the face:
- Take 1 raw egg yolk and add 1 teaspoon of linseed oil and the same amount of honey to it.
- Stir until a homogeneous mass is formed by placing the container with the mixture for several minutes in hot water.
- Apply warm mass on the skin, leave for 15 minutes.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water.
Flax oil can be used to lubricate small wounds and cuts - its regenerating and anti-inflammatory effect will accelerate their healing.
From stretch marks
Stretch marks are another cosmetic problem that flaxseed oil can help prevent. It penetrates deep into the skin, nourishes and moisturizes it, stimulates the production of collagen and improves elasticity. It is recommended to rub the oil once a day into wet skin immediately after taking a shower or bath..
Flaxseed oil also treats inflammatory diseases of the oral mucosa. To eliminate them, a small amount of oil should be kept in the mouth without swallowing for 5 minutes several times a day.
Photo Gallery: Optimal Ways to Use Flax Oil During Pregnancy
Linseed oil in the composition of face masks softens, moisturizes, rejuvenates and heals the skin 
Flaxseed oil is drunk during a meal, dividing the daily dose into 2 doses. 
In cereals, salads and other dishes, flaxseed oil is an excellent substitute for other vegetable oils. 
Flaxseed oil can be taken as a dietary supplement in capsules 
Massaging flaxseed oil on your stomach, chest, thighs, and lower back can help prevent dry skin and stretch marks. 
Flaxseed oil is great for hair and scalp care