| This study determined the influence of flaxseed (3 grams alpha-linolenic acid) on the lipid profile, serum insulin levels, fasting serum glucose levels and hemoglobin A1C (HgbA1C) in adults. Participants were assigned to the ground flaxseed (n = 14), flaxseed oil (n = 15) or control group (n = 11). Baseline and final biochemical markers were obtained for each participant. No significant differences were observed between the groups for demographic, anthropometric or dietary variables. Total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein increased among all groups, while triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein levels decreased with flaxseed intake. HgbA1C increased (p < 0.05) in the oil and control groups, while serum FBG decreased and insulin levels increased in all groups. These results indicate that flaxseed intake can impact serum lipids, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin levels, and HgbA1C; however, the unaltered background diet, low dosage, study length and flaxseed bioavailability may have confounded the results of this study. |
