Synopsis

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

Lignans are a group of polyphenolic compounds found in plants, especially seeds like flaxseed. Their relevance to prostate health is primarily due to their conversion by gut bacteria into enterolignans, such as enterodiol and enterolactone, which have weak estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects. Several epidemiological studies have explored the relationship between dietary lignan intake and prostate health, particularly focusing on prostate cancer risk. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that lignans may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells and modulate hormone metabolism, potentially reducing risk. Human clinical evidence, however, is limited and mixed. For example, a few observational studies suggest an association between higher serum enterolactone levels and lower prostate cancer risk, but intervention trials using lignan-rich foods or supplements have not consistently shown significant benefits for prostate health or PSA levels. As a result, while there is a plausible biological mechanism and some supporting data, the overall evidence remains preliminary. Thus, lignans are sometimes included in prostate health supplements based on their weak scientific support, but more robust, large-scale clinical trials are needed to clearly establish efficacy for prostate health support.

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