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Lignans are a group of chemical compounds found in plant-based foods including flaxseeds, sesame and pumpkin seeds, and rye. When these foods are digested, intestinal bacteria activates the lignans. Lignans are considered phytoestrogens, states the University of Maryland Medical Center, and may act as weak or antiestrogens in your body. Research is being conducted in regard to its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its possible benefit of reducing the risk of heart disease and lowering cholesterol levels.
The richest source of lignans comes from crushed or macerated flaxseeds. A study published in 2010 in the "British Journal of Nutrition" tested the lignan from flaxseeds in regard to cancer. They found that flax lignans might lower your cancer risk by preventing ...