¿Hot flashes? Take linseed

Flaxseed could be a new alternative for treating women who suffer from hot flashes during menopause. According to preliminary data that have resulted from a study by the Mayo Clinic, a diet that includes certain amounts of flaxseed may help reduce hot flashes in post-menopausal women not receiving estrogen. 
The hot flashes are seen as waves of intense heat in much of the body, especially chest, back, face, neck and head, usually accompanied by sweating, reddening of the skin and, sometimes, shivering. The frequency, duration and intensity of hot flashes varies with the individual, and often are associated with other symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, insomnia or trouble sleeping. 
"The hot flashes are a nuisance for women going through menopause. We hope to help find effective alternatives without hormones, and flaxseed seems to be one of them, "said Dr. Sandhya Pruthi, breast health specialist from the Mayo Clinic and one of the main researchers who participated in this study. 
The 21 participants included in their diet 40 grams of flaxseed daily ground for six weeks and reported that the frequency of hot flashes decreased 50% in that period, as well as an improvement in mood, the pain in the joints or muscles, and less chills and sweating. 
"We are happy that these women have improved their quality of life; apparently flaxseed only just alleviates hot flashes, but also offers benefits for general health and psychological."
The team from the Mayo Clinic decided to investigate flaxseed because it is a phytoestrogen, a plant source of estrogen. Flaxseed contains lignans and omega-3 fatty acids. 
The lignans are antioxidants with light similar to estrogen, which also have some anti-carcinogenic effects.