There do seem to be divergent opions on the impact of lignans in flaxseed in relation to oestrogen mechanisms.
Here are some more sources for anybody debating the issue to discuss with their advisors.
This is what a person reseaching in the subject said
"Lignans are phytoestrogens but they are very weak and only elicit a
very weak estrogenic response. The current research suggests that the
advantage of this is the body detects them as estrogens (which produce a
strong estrogenic response) and therefore produces less harmful
estrogens (homoeostatic process) though inhibition of the aromatase
enzymes, more SHBG to bind estrogens (for elimination from the body) and
increases the conversion of estrogens to the 2OHE metabolism pathway
over the 16OHE (by increasing CYP1A1 enzymes). This whole process has a
cyclic effect with the end result being less bioavailable estrogen
(harmful), increased 2OHE (protective), and decreased 16OHE (harmful)."
This is a link on this site that looks at the issue of the action of lignans in flaxseed.
http://www.her2support.org/vbulletin...7&pp=25&page=2
RB