Linseed oil during pregnancy - the benefits and harm

Traditional medicine always comes to the aid of the expectant mother in a period when it is not recommended to use chemical preparations and synthetic additives. However, we can find some of the useful ingredients in our buffet, for example, vegetable oils.

Flaxseed oil is considered one of the most beneficial due to the high content of omega fatty acids. It is actively involved in metabolism and strengthens all the internal systems of a pregnant woman, positively influences the growth and development of the embryo.

However, during pregnancy it is necessary to apply new products with caution and familiarize yourself with the side effects in advance.

Chemical composition

Organic flax seed oil contains a significant amount of components whose effectiveness has been proven in cooking, medicine and cosmetology:

• Omega unsaturated fatty acids (linoleic, oleic, linolenic);
• saturated organic acids (myristic, stearic, palmitic);
• vitamins of group B, A, E and K;
• phytosterols;
• lignans;
• macro- and microelements (phosphorus, calcium, zinc, potassium, magnesium and others);
• lecithin;
• linamarine;
• squash;
• thioproline.

According to the content of linolenic acid (Omega-3), linseed oil is ahead of even the well-known bio-additive “fish oil”.

The calorie content of the product is very high - 884 kcal. In addition, it is more than 85% fat, which should be considered in the preparation of the diet.

Saturated fatty acids are involved in the formation of beneficial cholesterol, without which biochemical reactions of the body and metabolism are not complete.

Linolenic acid is involved in hemostasis and prevents increased thrombosis.

Useful properties of flaxseed oil during pregnancy

The valuable product has a complex effect on the organism of the future mother and child, it launches the most important biological processes, models the immunity. Flax seed oil is important for pregnant women for the following reasons.

1. Reduces acidity. The tool envelops the mucous surface of the stomach and intestines, thereby reducing the acidity of the environment, reduces the aggressive effect of sharp, salty and acidic products on the inner walls. Regular use of the product allows you to get rid of heartburn, nausea, reduce the symptoms of gastritis and colitis, prevent the appearance of ulcers and microcracks.
2. Improves digestion. Enzymes and useful components in the composition of the oil improve the absorption of products, positively affect the motor function of the stomach and intestines. One spoon of oil, eaten in the morning on an empty stomach, produces high-quality prevention of constipation in the later periods.
3. Strengthens the cardiovascular system. Vitamins A and E increase the elasticity and resilience of the vascular walls, prevent their fragility, and fatty acids are purified from cholesterol and atherosclerotic plaques. Flaxseed oil also stabilizes blood pressure, preventing the occurrence of hypertensive states (hypertension, eclampsia, etc.).
4. Positive effect on the circulatory system. The product prevents adhesion of red blood cells to each other, which leads to thrombosis, varicose veins, emboli, thrombophlebitis and other unpleasant consequences of pregnancy.
5. Strengthens the nervous system. Vitamins B, as well as magnesium in the composition of the product are involved in the formation of a healthy central nervous system and fetal brain. For mom, these elements are valuable by other properties: they eliminate mood swings, reduce manifestations of depression and irritability, improve memory and concentration.
6. Reduces the risk of pregnancy complications. Studies have shown that oil from flax seeds reduces the likelihood of placental insufficiency, malformations of the nervous system of the fetus, its intrauterine death.
7. Stimulates the endocrine system. The product has a positive effect on the thyroid and sex glands, improves the synthesis of hormones that support normal pregnancy.
8. Reduces the level of glucose in the plasma. Regular consumption of oil prevents the development of diabetes mellitus or gestational diabetes.
9. Fights pathogenic microflora. Vitamins and minerals strengthen the immune system, allowing it to resist viruses, infections, fungi, bacteria, etc. Also, flaxseed oil produces prevention of parasites: Giardia, Ascaris, helminths and others.
10. Improves liver function. The product cleanses the body, neutralizes the effects of toxins, slags, metabolites, radionuclides and other harmful substances that are retained in the liver cells.
11. Improves the health of the dermis. Vitamins "beauty" and Omega acids - is the key to a smooth, elastic and healthy skin. During the application of flax oil, manifestations of dermatitis (including those of an allergic nature), irritability and dryness of the skin, its sensitivity are reduced. Also, local application of oil increases the elasticity and tone of the epidermis, moisturizes it, preventing the occurrence of stretch marks.
12. Fights against carcinogens and pathogenic cells. Scientists have identified the ability of the tool to reduce the division of malignant cells. Flax seed oil reduces the risk of cancer, slows the growth of existing benign and malignant tumors.
13. Facilitates childbirth. Doctors have proven that the use of flax oil, shortly before birth, prepares the cervix for disclosure, improves its elasticity and allows you to quickly achieve the size necessary for labor activity.

How to apply flaxseed oil

Gynecologists advise women to use the product as a biological supplement, as well as a local cosmetic tool. Flax oil is added to homemade shampoos and hair masks, rubbed into the nail plate and cuticle,Enrich cream and serum for skin. To prevent stretch marks, they should rub the vulnerable areas (skin of the chest and abdomen) twice a day.

Oil can be refilled salads and ready meals, add to cooked fresh juices to improve the absorption of vitamins. But it is better not to heat it, because in the process of roasting carcinogens are released, and the oil itself acquires an unpleasant bitter taste.

To promote health, no more than 2 tablespoons of flaxseed oil is put on the day. The best absorption occurs if the product is eaten on an empty stomach immediately after waking up (30 minutes before breakfast). It is advisable to drink the product with natural juice or non-carbonated water. The course of treatment is 30 days, after which you must take a break for at least 2 weeks. If you take the drug in the form of capsules, then the dosage is the following - 2 pieces per day (morning and evening).

Where can I get the remedy? Flax seed oil is sold in large supermarkets in the vegetable oils, sauces and spices section. It can also be ordered online from a trusted supplier who will provide all quality certificates for products.Many mommies buy oil at a pharmacy in the form of corked glass bottles and capsules.

Negative effect of flaxseed oil

1. Increasing the tone of the uterus and activation of its muscles, which increases the risk of premature birth.
2. The occurrence of the first allergic reaction to vegetable oils (rarely, but possible).
3. Increased blood clotting, which leads to its thickening and the appearance of small blood clots.
4. Significant reduction in blood pressure, which is undesirable for women with hypotension.
5. The development of intolerance to the product by the gastrointestinal tract, which manifests itself in the form of flatulence, bloating and prolonged diarrhea.
6. Changes in hormonal levels (phytoestrogens in the composition of the oil may affect the secretion of other sex hormones).

As for the strict contraindications to the use of flax oil, there are not so many of them:

• diseases of the gallbladder, thyroid and pancreas (for example, pancreatitis, cholecystitis);
• the presence of urolithiasis or kidney stones;
• hormonal disorders;
• irritable bowel (frequent diarrhea);
• individual intolerance (allergy);
• uterus tone or hypertonus;
• complications or pathologies of pregnancy.

Flaxseed oil appears rarely on store shelves and is in good demand due to its beneficial properties. Moderate use of the product leads to an improvement in general condition, mood, and also facilitates childbirth.

Video: the benefits and harm of linseed oil