Fish oil and flaxseed oil are two different supplements you can take if you have a history of heart disease or have health factors that increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. These supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can also be found in fatty fish, soy-based foods, walnuts and many vegetable oils. Both of these supplements are effective. You may or may not benefit from taking both at the same time, depending on the rest of your diet and general health. Talk with your doctor or nutritionist about what you should be doing to ensure that you get the omega-3 fatty acids that you need.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Types
Of the three omega-3 fatty acids, two are found in fish oil. They are eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, or EPA and DHA. Another omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linoleic acid, or ALA, is found in flaxseed oil and other plant-based sources. ALA can be converted to EPA and DHA, but the conversion isn't particularly efficient. The more efficient way to get your omega-3 fatty acids is via fish oil or fatty fish. Flaxseed has other health-related benefits, though. Talk with your doctor about the advisability of taking fish oil and flaxseed or flaxseed oil together.
Importance for Health
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of unsaturated fat that your body lacks the enzymes to synthesize. As a result, these essential fatty acids must come from supplements or dietary sources. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the health of your nervous system, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. These fats also control growth, development, the levels of different lipids in your blood and inflammation.
Effects
Omega-3 fatty acids are often used to reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular problems, such as a heart attack or stroke. These fats lower your blood pressure, decreasing the stress on your heart. Omega-3 fatty acids also lower the blood levels of triglycerides, a type of lipid that contributes to atherosclerosis. Taking flaxseed oil and fish oil also makes it harder for your platelets to stick together, which reduces your risk of developing blood clots that trigger a heart attack or stroke.
Risks
Both fish oil and flaxseed oil are generally safe to take. But fish oil can cause diarrhea, upset stomach, gas and belching. If you take both of these supplements simultaneously or consume large doses of either fish oil or flaxseed oil, your blood may become too thin. This can cause you to bruise or bleed more easily. You should also talk to your doctor before taking supplements with omega-3 fatty acids, because they can interact with some medications.
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