Flaxseed oil, also called linseed oil, derives from the seeds of the flax plant, Linum usitatissimum. It contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which the body needs to maintain good health, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Flaxseed oil may not be as beneficial as fish oil in helping to prevent heart disease, however, and some side effects and interactions are associated with its use.
Increased Risk for Macular Degeneration
Eating plenty of fish containing two types of omega-3 fatty acids -- eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA -- can reduce the risks for developing macular degeneration. However, eating a diet high in alpha-linoleic acid, or ALA, the type of omega-3 found in flaxseed oil, may actually increase the risks of developing macular degeneration, according to UMMC. Those who suffer from macular degeneration should not take flaxseed oil unless directed to do so by a physician.
Bleeding Problems
Flaxseed oil can cause problems with increased bleeding, especially in high doses, according to eMedTV. As a result, flaxseed oil can cause those taking it to bruise easily or have cuts that take longer than usual to stop bleeding. Other signs of excessive bleeding include bloody vomit, black, tarry stools and bright, red blood in the stool. It may be necessary to discontinue taking flaxseed oil before having dental procedures or surgery, due to the increased risk of bleeding.
A rare but serious side effect associated with taking high doses of flaxseed oil is bleeding into the brain, or hemorrhagic stroke. The signs of hemorrhagic stroke include vision changes, difficulty speaking, weakness on one side and severe headache. Hemorrhagic stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention.
Possible Cancer Risk
Ingesting high levels of alpha-linoleic acid found in flaxseed oil may increase the risk of developing breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men, according to the University of Michigan Health System. The risk of developing these cancers by ingesting high doses of flaxseed oil is not certain, but alpha-linoleic acid has shown to be mutagenic, or able to cause pre-cancerous changes. More research is needed, as the results of several studies have been contradictory.
Drug Interactions
Flaxseed oil can interfere with absorption of many medications, so you should take it separately from your other medications and supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids, including the alpha-linoleic acid found in flaxseed oil, can cause an elevation in blood glucose levels. Diabetics may need to have their dosages of insulin or diabetic medication increased while taking flaxseed oil, according to UMMC. Flaxseed oil can also increase the effects of blood-thinning medications, according to MayoClinic.com. Those taking blood-thinner medications, such as Coumadin and Plavix, should consult a physician about adjusting the dosage. Diabetics, people with bleeding disorders and those taking blood-thinner medications should only ingest flaxseed oil under the supervision of a physician.
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