Ground, whole and processed oil flaxseed are sources of omega-3 fatty acid. While flaxseed oil, also labeled as linseed oil, avoids some of the more dangerous side effects of whole and ground flaxseed, it does have side effects that require monitoring for prevention. The Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health warn that supplements require additional study, and that individuals taking supplements such as flaxseed oil should consult a medical professional prior to use.
Increased ALA and EPA Levels
The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that individuals with schizophrenia or diabetes should avoid using flaxseed oil. People with these conditions are often unable to convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) to the more easily-utilized docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and flaxseed oil may increase the ALA and EPA present in the body.
Increased Blood Sugar Levels
The UMMC lists potential side effects related to flaxseed oil and drug interactions for individuals taking blood sugar-lowering medications, since flaxseed oil may elevate fasting blood sugar levels. A professional evaluation of the prescription medication dosage is necessary when taking flaxseed oil.
Increased Disease Risk
Two research studies---one examining male prostate cancer and the other focusing on macular degeneration in both sexes---reported in 2001 that high levels of ALA increased the risk of both diseases. While the clinical studies did not specifically use flaxseed oil, the omega-3 fatty acids used were taken from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) sources similar to flaxseed oil. The hazards were deemed significant enough for the UMMC to post a warning for individuals with high risk factors for these two diseases to avoid obtaining ALA through flaxseed oil.
Increased Bleeding
Flaxseed oil has been shown in some studies to increase bleeding or force a reduction in blood clotting. The Mayo Clinic reports known interactions for flaxseed oil with certain blood-thinning drugs, including Coumadin and Plavix. It is also reported that aspirin may react negatively with the oil. Both the Mayo Clinic and the UMMC state that people using blood-thinning medications should avoid using flaxseed oil.
Inflammation Disorders
Taking flaxseed oil creates a risk of increasing the amount of omega-3 levels to unhealthy levels. Diets with an improper balance of omega-3 and omega-6, both classified as polyunsaturated fatty acids, are unhealthy. Omega-3 assists in reducing inflammation, while omega-6 promotes it. Excess levels of flaxseed oil create an imbalance that adds to the risk of developing an inflammatory disorder, according to the UMMC. A balance of twice as man omega-6 fatty acids as omega-3 fatty acids is considered healthy.
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