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What is the toxin in flaxseeds? Are Flaxseeds Toxic?

Flaxseed Toxicity and Cyanide Connection: Examining the Research While flaxseeds boast numerous health benefits, concerns have arisen regarding their potential connection to cyanide toxicity. Let's dive into the scientific research to understand the facts:  1. Cyanogenic Glycoside Content: Flaxseeds do contain cyanogenic glycosides, specifically linustatin and neolinustatin. When broken down by digestive enzymes, these compounds release hydrogen cyanide (HCN).  However, it's crucial to understand the context: The amount of HCN released from flaxseeds is very low, estimated at 1-2 mg per tablespoon (10g) compared to the lethal dose of 50-60 mg for an adult.  Human bodies possess efficient HCN detoxification pathways , primarily in the liver , readily converting it to the harmless thiocyanate .  Studies haven't shown increased blood cyanide levels or adverse effects, even with consumption of 50g flaxseeds daily for 8 weeks.  2. Research Findings : A review on flaxseeds analy