Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, contains the essential omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA, is often taken as a dietary supplement. Once in the body, ALA breaks down into DHA and EPA, the same fatty acids found in fish oil, although it supplies less of these nutrients than fish oil. Flaxseed oil, like any substance, can interact with certain medications or have undesirable side effects. Always discuss flaxseed oil supplementation with your medical practitioner before taking it.
Change In Blood Glucose
Flaxseed oil and other omega-3 fatty acids can increase fasting blood glucose levels. If you have diabetes, check with your medical practitioner before taking flaxseed oil, because you may need to adjust your diabetic medication doses while taking flaxseed oil.
Decreased Platelet Aggregation
Flaxseed oil, like fish oil, can increase bleeding times by inhibiting platelets from sticking together. People taking over-the-counter blood thinners such as aspirin or prescription medications such as warfarin should not take flaxseed oil without their doctor's approval, because flaxseed oil may increase bleeding tendencies. Signs of increased bleeding include nosebleeds or easy bruising. Signs of increased internal bleeding include vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools. Hemorrhagic stroke could also occur as a result of increased bleeding; symptoms include numbness or weakness in the extremities, severe headache or difficulty speaking or seeing. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms occur.
Macular Degneration Risk Increase
Although fish oil may decrease the risk of developing macular degeneration, flaxseed oil may increase the risk for the eye disease, according to the results of two large studies that found an increased risk of macular degeneration in people eating diets rich in ALA, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. If you have macular degeneration, get your omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil rather than flaxseed oil, UMMC suggests.
Risk of Prostate Cancer Rises
Fish oil appears to have a protective effect against prostate cancer in men, but ALA may increase rather than decrease the risk. Men with prostate cancer or those at risk should obtain omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil rather than flaxseed oil.
Intestinal Blockage More Likely
If you get flaxseed oil by eating flaxseed, intestinal blockage can occur if you don't drink enough water. Symptoms of intestinal blockage include constipation and abdominal pain.
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