Lignans- why are they important. How can flaxseed be of benefit?
- Increasing lignans in the diet can have a protective effect on both the breast and prostate by inhibiting the enzyme called 17-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase Type-1 (17ß-HSD Type-1), which is responsible for the conversion of estrone (E1) into estradiol (E2) thus decreasing estradiol. Estrone [E1] a very weak estrogen predominates as a result. (Krazeisen 2001].
- Enterolactone also inhibitis the 5-alpha reductase enzyme responsible for converting beneficial testosterone into a potent metabolite called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT potentently stimulates both benign and malignant prostate cells. (Evans et al 1995)
- DHT is implicated as the aetiological factor in Male Pattern Baldness [MPB] and the drugs Finasteride and Dutasteride are known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, which inhibit the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Lignans may be of benefit in male pattern baldness by inhibiting 5-alpha reductase.
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