Comments on: How To Make 20-Minute No-Cook Pantry Meals

By: Ina Kielley

Ina Kielley — Mon, 04 May 2026 18:18:33 +0000

What a great recipe, Sarah! I do love tomatoes and tomato sauce for their umami flavor–I feel like it makes everything taste better. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

By: Ina Kielley

Ina Kielley — Mon, 04 May 2026 17:41:21 +0000

In reply to Libby.

Hello Libby! Thank you for bringing this up.

The idea that flaxseed acts as birth control or damages hormones is not supported by the current body of research, and it actually gets the science somewhat backwards. Here is what the evidence actually shows.

Flaxseeds do contain lignans, which are phytoestrogens. However, phytoestrogens are not the same as human estrogen. They interact with estrogen receptors in a much weaker and more selective way, and crucially, the lignans in flaxseeds actually appear to have anti-estrogenic effects in the body, not estrogen-boosting ones. Dr. Joel Fuhrman addressed this directly in the Food Revolution Summit, explaining that flaxseed lignans are converted by gut bacteria into compounds that actively lower estrogen and protect against estrogen-driven stimulation of breast tissue. Dr. Kristi Funk added that lignans in flax have been shown to activate tumor suppressors, the body’s own cancer-fighting mechanism.

Far from being harmful to hormones, flaxseeds are among the most researched foods for cancer prevention, particularly breast cancer. Research cited in the Summit found that lignan consumption was associated with a significant reduction in breast cancer mortality.

There is no credible peer-reviewed evidence that flaxseeds act as a contraceptive or negatively disrupt hormones in healthy people eating normal food amounts. The concern likely comes from a misunderstanding of how phytoestrogens work.

That said, if you have a hormone-sensitive condition or specific concerns, it is always wise to discuss any dietary changes with your healthcare provider. We hope this helps clarify things, and thank you for asking rather than just accepting the claim at face value! –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

By: Sarah Roberts

Sarah Roberts — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:14:53 +0000

I don’t like to cook, so I like this article. I used to make the following lunch every day in a 2-cup soup bowl. In the bottom I’d put a serving of frozen spinach and microwave according to the instructions. Next I’d add leftover brown rice, quinoa, millet, pasta, whatever whole grain was in the fridge. Occasionally all I had was a boiled potato, which I’d dice. Then I’d add 1/3 of a can of beans, sometimes seasoned, or bean soup. More than 1/3 of a can and I’d get gas. Then I’d pour 1/3 of an 8-ounce can of tomato sauce over it, sometimes pasta sauce or salsa, whatever we had on hand. Then I’d heat it in the microwave. Sometimes I’d add hot sauce or soy sauce. It was delicious, and healthy! I can’t remember why I stopped eating this meal. I think I needed a lighter lunch.

By: Libby

Libby — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:02:58 +0000

I have learned that flaxseed is birth control in a package. What are your thoughts on this? Damages your hormones.

By: Ina Kielley

Ina Kielley — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:48:38 +0000

In reply to Joann Caruso.

Hi Joann, and thank you for the question!

For optimal nutrition, flaxseeds should be ground before eating. Whole flaxseeds can sometimes pass through the digestive system undigested, which means your body misses out on their key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and lignans. Ground flaxseed allows for better absorption and provides the most health benefits, especially when added to oatmeal or smoothies.

However, whole flax seeds do provide some nutrients and fiber, and can be enjoyed for their crunchy texture in some recipes. So, essentially, how you enjoy them is up to you. But feel free to substitute ground seeds for whole in that recipe! –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

By: Joann Caruso

Joann Caruso — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:13:05 +0000

You used whole flaxseeds in oat breakfast mixture. I thought flaxseed had to be ground before using because whole flaxseeds are hard to digest. Please advise.