They also provide phytoestrogens -- plant compounds with a chemical structure similar to human estrogen -- in the form of lignans. Flax lignans offer several potential health benefits and may help prevent disease, however, many of these benefits are not yet fully understood. The lignans in flaxseed may have beneficial effects on your cardiovascular system. Diets rich in lignans may reduce blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as blood pressure -- three risk factors for heart disease -- according to a review of literature published in Nutrition Reviews in 2010.