Just been diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer. What’s the best way to take flaxseeds? Any other good alternative things to take? Thanks for your help
Oncology Nutrition says that IF you are going to try flax seeds then "Only moderate amounts of ground flaxseeds, up to two to three tablespoons per day at most, should be eaten." That is obviously alongside stating that you should speak to your oncologist before starting anything. If you ask you might find that they are willing to refer you to a nutritionist/dietician.
There are some promising studies involving flax seed and breast cancer but they haven't reached human stages yet so it could turn out to be nothing. Worst still, it could turn out to be dangerous for hormone related cancers due to the similarity to oestrogen.
There are many wild claims online about flax seed and flax seed oil, yet the potentially beneficial part of the flax seed is in the coat so I don't see how the oil would work and, as yet, there is no evidence for the flax seed either. It is being studied formally to get unbiased views on its possible benefits so keep an eye on proper scientific studies that are open to peer review.
The diet which involves eating flaxseed (linseed) oil, mixed with cottage cheese and low-fat milk is known as the Budwig diet.
You can read more about it on our website just here but there is currently no reliable evidence to show that this diet can treat or prevent cancer.
It's understandable that you might want to try things that you think may help treat or cure your cancer but you could harm your general health if you stop your cancer treatment for an unproven one so always talk to your doctor first.
Many websites might promote the Budwig diet as a cure for cancer but no reputable scientific cancer organisations support any of these claims.
