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Osteoporosis

Read on for detailed information about how various oils may help prevent osteoporosis.

Flaxseed
The potential effects of flaxseed on postmenopausal osteoporosis seem to be mostly related to its lignan content. The mammalian lignans enterodiol and enterolactone are structurally similar to the drug Tamoxifen, which has been reported to be effective in the treatment of osteoporosis. Enterodiol and enterolactone are also similar in structure to the estrogen hormones, estradiol and estrone, that naturally occur in the body (1). Since human osteoblasts (bone-producing cells) and osteoclasts (bone-degrading cells) have receptors on them to which estrogen can bind, it is thought that estrogen and estrogen-like compounds may influence bone metabolism (2). Moreover, it has been proposed that the antioxidant properties of lignans in flaxseed could reduce production of free radicals, which are thought to contribute to bone loss (1). Although there is a theoretical basis for lignans’ protective effect on bone health, the one clinical trial (2) conducted so far in this area did not yield an apparent effect, as measured by looking at biological markers of bone creation. More research is needed to further understand whether flaxseeds may benefit bone density.

The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as curative or prescriptive advice.

Bibliography
1. Arjmandi BH. The role of phytoestrogens in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in ovarian hormone deficiency. J Am Coll Nutr 2001;20(5 Suppl):398S-402S; discussion 417S-420S.
2. Lucas EA, Wild RD, Hammond LJ, Khalil DA, Juma S, Daggy BP, Stoecker BJ et al. Flaxseed improves lipid profile without altering biomarkers of bone metabolism in postmenopausal women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2002;87(4):1527-32.

 
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