This article will explore some of the top benefits of flaxseed oil and a few simple ways to use it. Much like flax seeds, flaxseed oil is loaded with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, one tablespoon 15 ml contains an impressive 7, mg of omega-3 fatty acids 3. Specifically, flaxseed oil contains alpha-linolenic acid ALA , a form of omega-3 fatty acid that is only converted in small amounts to active forms of omega-3, like EPA and DHA 4.
Just one tablespoon of flaxseed oil can meet and exceed your daily ALA needs 3. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to health and have been associated with benefits like reduced inflammation, improved heart health and protection for the brain against aging 6 , 7 , 8. Although the current research is limited to test-tube and animal studies, there is some evidence that flaxseed oil may help reduce the growth of cancer cells.
In one animal study, mice were given 0. It was found to prevent the spread of cancer and the growth of lung tumors 9. In another small animal study, flaxseed oil was shown to block the formation of colon cancer in rats Furthermore, test-tube studies have produced similar findings, with several studies showing that flaxseed oil reduced the growth of breast cancer cells 11 , Still, while these findings are promising, more research is needed to determine how these results may translate to humans.
One study in 59 people compared the effects of flaxseed oil to those of safflower oil, a type of oil high in omega-6 fatty acids. In this study, supplementing with one tablespoon 15 ml of flaxseed oil for 12 weeks led to significantly lower blood pressure levels than supplementing with safflower oil High blood pressure can harm heart health, as it places extra strain on the heart, forcing it to work harder.
Flaxseed oil may also improve the elasticity of the arteries. Both aging and increased blood pressure are generally linked to decreases in elasticity These benefits are likely due to the high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil, as supplementing with it has been shown to significantly increase the amount of omega-3s in the blood A recent animal study showed that flaxseed oil acted as a laxative to promote regularity, all while acting as an antidiarrheal agent Another study gave 50 constipated patients on hemodialysis either flaxseed oil, olive oil or mineral oil.
After four weeks, flaxseed oil increased the frequency of bowel movements and improved stool consistency. Also, it was found to be as effective as both olive oil and mineral oil However, research on the effects of flaxseed oil on constipation and diarrhea is currently limited to animal studies and studies on people with specific conditions.
Flaxseed oil may also help enhance skin health. One small study had 13 women supplement with flaxseed oil for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, they experienced improvements in skin smoothness and hydration, while skin sensitivity to irritation and roughness had decreased Mice with dermatitis were given flaxseed oil for three weeks.
The oil was shown to decrease symptoms of atopic dermatitis, such as redness, swelling and itching However, no studies have looked at the benefits of applying flaxseed oil to the skin of people.
Nevertheless, there are numerous anecdotal reports of improvements in smoothness and reduced irritation after applying flaxseed oil. Flaxseed oil is available in liquid and capsule form.
People use flaxseed and flaxseed oil to reduce cholesterol and blood sugar and treat digestive conditions. Some people also take flaxseed to treat inflammatory diseases.
When used in combination with daily exercise and a low cholesterol diet, flaxseed might help control cholesterol levels. Flaxseed might also be helpful for managing diabetes and lowering the risk of heart disease. When taken in recommended amounts, flaxseed and flaxseed oil are generally safe to use. However, when taken in large amounts and with too little water, flaxseed can cause:.
Because flaxseed oil might decrease blood clotting, stop using flaxseed oil two weeks before having elective surgery. The evidence is mixed as to whether flaxseed or flaxseed oil has any effect on the prostate or the risk of prostate cancer.
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Incorporating flaxseed oil into a healthful diet is fairly simple. It provides an omega-3 boost and may have some additional benefits, such as decreasing cholesterol and fighting inflammation.
Flaxseed oil supplements are available in some health food stores and online. It can be hard to understand the relationships between lipoproteins, cholesterol, the diet, and a person's lifestyle.
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Benefits Possible risks How to use Summary We include products we think are useful for our readers. Share on Pinterest Flaxseed oil may reduce cholesterol and fight cancer. Benefits of flaxseed oil. Possible risks. Share on Pinterest Adverse effects of flaxseed oil can include gas and bloating. How to use flaxseed oil. Exposure to air pollutants may amplify risk for depression in healthy individuals. Costs associated with obesity may account for 3. Related Coverage. What to know about lipoproteins, cholesterol, and diet.
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