Flaxseed Improves Glycemic Control

An abundant source of soluble fiber and lignans, compounds which have been studied for beneficial effects for pre-and type-2 diabetics, flaxseed also contains alpha-linolenic acid, an important plant-based omega-3 fatty acid.  Andrea M. Hutchins, from the University of Colorado (Colorado, USA), and colleagues enrolled 25 overweight or obese men and postmenopausal women with pre-diabetes  in  a 12-week long study in which subjects consumed 0, 13, or 26 grams of ground flaxseed daily.  The team monitored glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR), and normalized percent of alpha-linolenic fatty acid (ALA).   The team observed that 13 gm/day of flaxseed significantly decreased insulin resistance.  The study authors submit that: “Flaxseed intake decreased glucose and insulin and improved insulin sensitivity as part of a habitual diet in overweight or obese individuals with pre-diabetes.”