Why is flax seed oil the only oil allowed and why cant the seeds be eaten?
Dr. Gerson realized the need for the right type of essential fatty acids. He experimented with many types of oils and found that in all cases fats other than flax seed oil stimulated tumor growth and even the regrowth of tumors that had resolved. Flax seed oil is an omega 3 fatty acid containing linolenic and linoleic acids that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lipid mediators and thus reduces inflammatory responses in the body. It attracts oxygen at the cell membrane assisting in transport of oxygen into the cell. It also helps carry vitamin A through the blood stream. Lignans come from part of the fiber of the seed and are high in protein. Although they can provide health benefits for certain conditions, high lignan flax oil is not allowed on the Gerson Therapy as it introduces too much protein. Seeds, including flax seeds, have an important substance in them called an enzyme inhibitor that keeps them dormant until they are in the right environment to sprout.
