Mayo Clinic maintains a website that addresses a variety of health related topics. The Mayo dietician answered a question regarding the health benefits of flaxseed. The Mayo response is clear on the benefit of incorporating flaxseed into our diets. The Q&A can be accessed at: www.mayohealth.org

Andrew Weil, M.D. has written a number of books, including the recently published "Eight Weeks to Optimum Health, a proven program for taking full advantage of your body's natural healing power" (Ballentine Publishing Group). In his book, Dr. Weil advocates the need to include Omega-3 in your diet. In fact, it is addressed in week 1 of the 8 week program! In this book, Dr. Weil advises against the fish and flax oil capsules, recommending the addition of flax meal (ground flax) to your diet. Dr. Weil maintains a website at: www.drweil.com

Elaine Magee, MPH, RD published a book entitled "Tell me what to eat to help prevent Breast Cancer" (Career Press), including her "10 Food Steps to Freedom". Food step 4 - Eat More Fiber addresses Flaxseed as the "oat bran" of the new millennium! Ms. Magee highlights:

• Start by grinding the seeds - the beneficial components will be more available to your body.
• Use the seeds instead of the oil - although flaxseed oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, it doesn't contain the beneficial lignans and fiber that are removed in the process of making the oil.

Dr. Bob Arnot undertook a journey of discovery of breast cancer that resulted in his latest book, "The Breast Cancer Prevention Diet: The Powerful Foods, Supplements and Drugs That Can Save your Life" (Little Brown). Flaxseed was listed as one of the foods that can block the estrogen pathway. The fiber benefits of flaxseed can only be found in the whole seed version. Dr. Arnot recommends 25 grams of flaxseed a day (approximately ¼ cup ground).