Benefits Of Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed has been cultivated since 3000 BC. The benefits of flaxseed oil have been known since the time of Charlemagne, in the 8th century, who passed laws requiring his subjects to take it. For vegetarians and those with allergies to fish, or for those who simply don't like fish, flaxseed oil provides an alternative way of getting Omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil supplements also don't have the fishy aftertaste that can be found in some fish oil supplements.

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil (also known as linseed oil) contain significant amounts of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a precursor for Omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Studies have shown that flaxseed oil can be helpful in lowering cholesterol, especially for postmenopausal women and for those whose cholesterol levels were high in the first place. Other studies suggest that flaxseed oil may be beneficial for people with heart problems.

Flaxseed oil and fish oil, although both heart healthy, aren't the same. Although, flaxseed oil has more Omega-3 fatty acids than fish oil, ALA isn't converted as efficiently to Omega-3 in the body, so flaxseed's ALA may not have the same benefit as EPA and DHA found in fish oil.

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil will turn rancid if not refrigerated. It should be stored in dark bottles that keep out air and light.

Also - Talk to your doctor before beginning a regimen of flaxseed oil supplements. Although flaxseed can add to the benefit of some drugs, such as statins for lowering cholesterol, it's also contraindicated for other drugs, such as Cyclosporine or medications to thin blood or lower blood sugar, Avoid taking flaxseed oil supplements at the same time as other medications.