Laxative effects of partially defatted flaxseed meal on normal and experimental constipated mice

After supplemented with 2.5%, 5% and 10% (w/w) PDFM (L-, M- and H -PDFM) for 14 days, the constipation models of mice were induced by atropine-diphenoxylate. The small intestinal transit rates, start time of defecation, amount of defecation and wet weight of feces were researched in normal and constipation model mice.M- and H-PDFM significantly increase small intestinal transit rates in constipation model mice. All dose of PDFM markedly shortened the start time of defecation and M- and H-PDFM significantly increase stool frequency and weight in both normal and constipation model mice.PDFM may be a useful laxative to facilitate fecal output in normal and constipation conditions.Constipation is a worldwide public health problem in both developed and developing countries. In general, constipation is defined as infrequent or difficult passage of stool. It significantly affects the quality of life because constipation can cause not only discomfort and restlessness but also abdominal distension, vomiting, restlessness, gut obstruction, and perforation and even is associated with fatal pulmonary embolism [1]. In North America, the most estimates of the prevalence of constipation range from 12% to 19% [2]. In addition, constipation increases with increasing age [2]. A lot of drugs have been approved for the treatment of constipation and most of them are laxatives. Unfortunately, these drugs are not so ideal in clinical use because of their potentially adverse side effects such as inducing tolerance, melanosis coli, or cathartic colon [3]. Therefore, increasing fibers ingestion including dietary or medicinal fibers has been well accepted to be a primary treatment modality to relieve symptoms, especial for mild complaints of infrequency or hard stools [3].Flax is one of the most important oilseed crops of the world and flaxseed is a main source of α-linolenic acid (18:3; n-3) and the richest food source of lignans. The health benefits of both substances have been well-documen