Sources of Exposure :
Description :
The enterolignans, enterodiol and enterolactone are formed by the action of intestinal bacteria on lignan precursors found in plants. Because enterodiol and enterolactone can mimic some of the effects of estrogens, their plant-derived precursors are classified as phytoestrogens. When plant lignans are ingested, they can be metabolized by intestinal bacteria to the enterolignans, enterodiol and enterolactone, in the intestinal lumen.
Sources of Exposure: flaxseeds, sesame seeds
Health Impacts: The role of lignans in the prevention of hormone-associated cancers, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease is not yet clear.
Health Concerns
Contaminants:
Banned/restricted lists:
Clavel, T. et al., 2005
Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University: Lignans (Accessed December 2020) Milder, I. et al., 2005