The Potential Effects and Mechanisms of Flax Lignans on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

The Effects of Flax Lignans on Lipid Profile and Glucose Management in Type 2 Diabetes: a Randomized Double-Blind Cross-Over Study

The purpose of the study is to improving the lipid profile and glucose control in type 2 diabetic patients with supplementation of flax lignans. We hypothesize that flax lignans supplement will improve the cholesterol profile and glucose control in type 2 diabetic patients.

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing dramatically in the last decade in China. Hyperlipidemia is a comorbid condition in type 2 diabetes and increase the adverse health outcomes. Flax lignans, a phytoestrogen found in flaxseed is thought to be the compound responsible for cholesterol-lowering effect of flaxseed. Our purpose is to improving the lipid profile in type 2 diabetic patients with supplementation of flax lignans.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed type 2 diabetes
• Age: 50-79 years old
• LDL-cholesterol more than 2.9 mmol/l

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current or previous (within 6 months) use of estrogen therapy
• Cancer
• Chronic gastrointestinal diseases
• Current use of antibiotics
• Any severe liver or renal diseases
• Systolic blood pressure more than 180 mmHg or phase 3 hypertension
• Any severe mental diseases
• Severe cardio- or cerebro-vascular diseases