What You Must Know About Flax Seeds!

Posted by Nick Niesen on October 26th, 2010

Fish oil versus Flaxseed oil

What is the opinion on fish oil supplements, and why not just take flaxseed oil since it has omega 3s? How much is needed to take daily?

The answer is really very simple. There are several Omega 3 fatty acids. They are named ALA (alpha linolenic acid ), EPA (eicosapentanoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid). ALA is found in flaxseed oil whereas EPA and DHA are found in fish oils. ALA is able to convert into EPA and then into DHA, but this takes several enzymatic steps in the body, and not everyone efficiently converts ALA into EPA and DHA, particularly with aging.

Lignans are a type of fiber, and at the same time a type of phytoestrogen?a chemical similar to the human hormone estrogen. Flaxseeds are the richest source of lignans. When you eat lignans, bacteria in the digestive tract convert them into estrogen-like substances called enterodiol and enterolactone, which are thought to have anti-tumor effects. Lignans and other flaxseed components may also have antioxidant properties, that is, they may reduce the activity of cell-damaging free radicals.

Flaxseeds have a pleasant, nutty flavor and taste good sprinkled on salads, cooked vegetables, or cereals. The oil is quite tasty, too, though expensive.

In addition to the omega-3s, the remaining two components of flaxseed, which are lignans and fiber are being studied for their health benefits as well, says Diane Morris, PhD, RD, spokesperson for the Flax Council of Canada. Lignans, for example, act as both phytoestrogens and antioxidants, while the fiber contained in the flaxseed is of both the soluble and insoluble type. Flax is an interesting mixture of nutrients and other components.

So what are you waiting for? You have the chance to improve your health state today! We urge you to gather more information on the benefits of Flaxseed and Flaxseed oil today! Live a healthy life!