Flaxseed oil is a dietary supplement available in most supermarkets. You can use flaxseed oil to treat digestive disorders, although it may not be as effective as flaxseeds themselves. You can mix both flaxseed and flaxseed oil with other ingredients for digestion. Talk to your doctor before trying any new supplement including flaxseed and flaxseed oil.
Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil comes from the seeds of the linum plant. It comes in both liquid and capsule form. Flaxseed oil is high in alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA, which is a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Anecdotally, flaxseed oil has been used to treat a variety of health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, high blood fats and constipation, notes MedlinePlus. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that a teaspoon of flaxseed oil may relieve constipation in children over the age of 2.
Flaxseed and Digestion
Flaxseeds themselves contain something flaxseed oil does not: fiber and mucilage. Both can add bulk to the stool and help it pass through the digestive tract more easily. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, laxatives that work by bulking up the stool are the safest option for most people. Ground flaxseed may be the better option for adults. You can mix it with soft foods like yogurt, or add it to baked goods such as muffins or pancakes. For an extra fiber boost, you can add ground flaxseed to fruit purees such as applesauce, or to a fruit smoothie. Kids can take ground flaxseed as well. The UMMC recommends a teaspoon of ground seeds daily for kids ages 2 to 12.
Mixing Flaxseed Oil
You can mix flaxseed oil with fiber-rich foods to promote digestion, although the soluble fiber found in the food may deserve more credit than the oil itself. Examples of fiber-rich foods include fruits with edible peels and whole grains. Try adding flax oil to oatmeal, or use it as a topping for sliced apples. For a savory smoothie or fiber-rich juice, combine pureed carrots and celery with flax oil. When blending fruits and vegetables, use a powerful blender or a specialized juicer, to retain the fiber. You can also take flaxseed caplets along with fiber-rich meals that include beans or fresh vegetables.
Other Guidelines
While fiber from foods and flax is generally beneficial for the bowels, too much can actually increase digestive disturbances. Without plenty of water, your bowels may become obstructed with all of the extra bulk in the stool. The oil form may even cause the opposite effect. Taking excessive amounts of flaxseed oil, which, according to Medline Plus, is more than 30 grams daily, may cause diarrhea. Talk to your doctor before taking any type of dietary supplement, so you can weigh the benefits against any potential risks or side effects.
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