Clinical studies suggest that flaxseed oil and other omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful in treating a variety of conditions. The evidence is strongest for heart disease and problems that contribute to heart disease, however, flaxseed oil may be also beneficial in treating:
- high cholesterol
- certain infections
- autism
- ulcers
- migraine headaches
- preterm labor
- emphysema
- psoriasis
- glaucoma
- Lyme disease
- systemic lupus erythmatosus (lupus)
- irregular heart beats (arrhythmias)
- multiple sclerosis
- panic attacks
- reduce stress
What Is Flaxseed Oil?
Flaxseed oil is derived from the seeds of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum, L.). Flaxseed oil and flaxseed contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid that may be beneficial in treating heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, and other health conditions. Flaxseed, in addition to ALA, also contains lignans that may help prevent cancer.
ALA, as well as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are also referred to as omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA are found primarily in fish while ALA is mostly found in flaxseed oil and other vegetable oils. Although similar in structure, the benefits of ALA, EPA, and DHA are not necessarily the same.
What Does Flaxseed Oil Do?
Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation while most omega-6 fatty acids (another essential fatty acid) tends to promote inflammation. An inappropriate balance of these essential fatty acids contributes to the development of disease while a proper balance helps maintain and even improve health. A healthy diet should consist of roughly 2 – 4 times more omega-3 fatty acids than omega-6 fatty acids. The typical American diet tends to contain 14 – 25 times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids, and many researchers believe this imbalance is a significant factor in the rising rate of inflammatory disorders in the United States.
Flaxseed oil is available in liquid and softgel capsule forms. Like any oil, flaxseed oil may turn rancid if it is not refrigerated. Flaxseed oil requires special packaging because it is easily destroyed by heat, light, and oxygen. The highest quality flaxseed products are manufactured using fresh pressed seeds, bottled in dark or opaque containers, and processed at low temperatures in the absence of light, extreme heat, or oxygen.
Recommended Dosage
Flaxseed oil: Take 1 – 2 tablespoonfuls daily, or 1 – 2 capsules daily.
Be sure to buy flaxseed oil supplements made by reputable companies who certify that their products are free of heavy metals such as lead and mercury.
TruNature Organic Flaxseed Oil 1300 mg can be purchased from Vitasprings.com.