Flaxseed is produced from the flax plant, commonly grown in the northwestern United States and Canada. Flaxseed oil contains nearly 60 percent of omega-3 fatty acids in the form of form of alpha-linolenic acid, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Omega-3 fatty acids have a variety of health benefits. Flaxseed oil is available in gel capsules and as a liquid. Unlike fish oil, the body has difficulty converting flaxseed oil's ALA into omega-3 fatty acids. Harvard Medical School suggests taking flaxseed oil as backup, but not a substitute for omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and fish oil.
Dry Eye
According to a study conducted by Dr. Athena Papas of Tuft's University School of Dental Medicine, a combination of flaxseed and fish oil may decrease dry eye and mouth. The study gave patients suffering from Sjogren's syndrome a 1 to 2g fish oil/flaxseed supplement over a period of three months. The condition causes decreased eye lubrication and dysfunction of the salivary glands. The study reported a near 50 percent improvement for patients receiving the supplement. Patients experienced increased salvation and decreased symptoms of dry eye.
Heart Health
Flaxseed oil may decrease the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, but further scientific studies are necessary, reports MedlinePlus. People consuming diets high in ALA-rich foods significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The medical center states ALAs may reduce inflammation, decrease blood clotting and reduce irregular heart rhythms. Still, it is unclear if flaxseed oil displays the same heart-health benefits as other omega-3 fatty acids.
Side Effects and Interactions
You should not take flaxseed oil or capsules if you are taking blood-thinning or diabetic medications, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center. The effects of anticoagulants, such as aspirin, warfarin and clopedigre, may increase if you take flaxseed oil. Diabetes medications lowering blood glucose levels may need to be taken more often if you take flaxseed oil. Cholesterol-reducing drugs may be more effective in combination with increased omega-3 fatty acids. Always speak with a medical professional before taking any dietary supplements, including flaxseed oil.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Flaxseed Oil
- PSLGroup.com: Omega-3 Supplements May Help Dry Eye Caused by Sjogren's Syndrome: Presented at ARVO
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil
- The World's Healthiest Foods: Flaxseeds
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide: Why Not Flaxseed Oil?
- MedlinePlus: Flaxseed
Member Comments