Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) is a plant lignan found primarily in flaxseed. It is of interest for supporting the estrogen body system due to its phytoestrogenic properties—once ingested, SDG is metabolized by intestinal bacteria into enterolignans (enterodiol and enterolactone) which can bind to estrogen receptors. Some in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that these enterolignans exert weak estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects, depending on endogenous estrogen levels. This has led to interest in SDG and flaxseed as natural alternatives for modulating estrogen activity, particularly in peri- and postmenopausal women.

Limited clinical data exist. Some small human studies suggest that flaxseed supplementation may affect menstrual cycle length, reduce hot flashes, or modestly influence estrogen metabolism, but results are inconsistent and often confounded by other dietary factors. Most evidence is preclinical or from observational studies, and there is a lack of large, well-controlled clinical trials directly establishing SDG’s efficacy for balancing estrogen or treating estrogen-related conditions. Thus, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence, the overall level of scientific validation is low to moderate at present, warranting a rating of 2 out of 5.

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