Flaxseed oils are known to be one of the best sources of Omega-3 fatty acid. But are there any risks in taking it? Learn more from this guide before choosing the best flaxseed oil supplements for your health routine.
It is a well-known fact that Omega 3 fatty acids are important for both physical and mental health. Flaxseed oil contains a high portion of Omega-3 fatty acids, making it a superfood that is claimed to reduce risks of depression, heart disease, dementia, and arthritis. (1)
What Is Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil is derived from flaxseeds that are found on the flax plant, or Linum usitatissimum. The flax plant is known to be one of the oldest cultivated crops on the planet. The history of the usage of the flax plant stretches back to 3,000 years of humans civilization.
The term, usitatissimum means ‘common’ or ‘useful’, which denotes that humans have benefited from every part of the flax plant. The seeds of flax plants are known to be a nutritional rich supplement. When harvested, flaxseeds appear in a range of colors from amber to brown.
While flax seeds are can be consumed in its original form, flaxseed oil is a popular alternative. Flaxseed oils are extracted via the cold-press method to ensure the nutritional compounds are uncompromised by heat or chemical. (2) (3)
Flaxseed Oil Nutritional Facts
You don’t have to worry about carbohydrates from flax seed oil as it has none. However, flaxseed oil contains calories from fats found within the oil. Check out the following nutritional facts to have a clearer picture of what you can expect from a tablespoon (14g) of flaxseed oil. (4)
- Calories: 498 kJ
- Carbohydrates: 0
- Fats and Fatty Acids: 13.5g
- Protein & Amino Acids: 0.0g
- Vitamin E: 2.4 mg
A tablespoon of flaxseed oil will give you 7196 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids and 1715 mg of Omega-6 fatty acids. The high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids is what made flaxseed oil a much sought-after supplement.
Does Flaxseed Oil Have All The Omega-3 Fatty Acids That You Need?
Before you take flaxseed oil for Omega-3 fatty acids, it helps to know that there are 3 different types of Omega 3, which are ALA, EPA, and DHA. These fatty acids are crucial in keeping our body healthy.
However, flaxseed oil only contains ALA or alpha-linolenic acid. In this form, ALA has little use to the body, except being used for energy. The health benefits attributed to Omega-3 are attributed to EPA and DHA.
While the body can convert ALA to EPA and DHA, it does so in a small amount. Thus, to get the required EPA and DHA, you’ll need to take a considerably high amount of ALA. (5) (6)
Health Benefits Of Flaxseed Oil
While the flax plant has been used since ancient civilization, the nutritional values of flaxseeds are only given due attention in the past 2 decades. Since then, flaxseed oils have grown as a popular nutritional supplement and is associated with these benefits. (7)
1. May Help To Fight Cancer
The medical fraternity has always been working diligently to find potential remedies for cancers. Early studies have discovered flaxseed oil’s potential in combating cancer.
A study conducted by the University of Toronto, Canada found that ALA, a fatty acid found in flaxseed oil, stops breast cancer cells from growing by altering their signal pathways. (8)
Another study was conducted on mice to inspect the effect of flaxseed oil on lung cancer. In this study, the mice that are administered with flaxseed oil shown a reduced growth of the cancer cells. (9)
2. Could Promote Hearth Health
Taking flaxseed oil may also give your heart health a welcomed boost. Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common heart-related disease and one study has shown that flaxseed oil has the potential to lower blood pressure. (10)
LDL cholesterol is known to be a contributing factor to heart diseases. A randomized, double-blind study conducted by Japanese researchers has shown a positive indication that taking flaxseed oil can reduce LDL cholesterol in the body. (11)
3. May Treat Eczema-Related Symptoms
Atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema, is a medical condition that results in red and itchy skin. While no known cure is available for atopic dermatitis, there are treatments available for the skin condition. (12)
A study on mice has found that apply fermented flax seed oil on the skin of the animal has led to the reduction of the symptoms caused by atopic dermatitis. (13)
4. Possible Remedy For Constipation Or Diarrhea
Both constipation and diarrhea cause distress to your bowel system. The flaxseed oil has a unique characteristic where it can offer relief to both contrasting conditions. A study conducted by researchers in Karachi found that flaxseed oil contains laxative and anti-diarrheal properties, explaining its use as a traditional remedy for constipation and diarrhea. (14)
5. May Decrease Inflammation
The flaxseed oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. A study conducted on mice has shown a positive association of flaxseed oil in decreasing inflammation. (15) However, the anti-inflammatory effect of flaxseed oil seems to have a selective effect on humans, as pointed by another study. (16)
Safety And Precautions Of Flaxseed Oil
While flaxseed oil may be a beneficial supplement, you should be cautious when taking it. Never take flaxseed oil in excessive dosage as exceeding 60 grams per day can lead to diarrhea.
If you’re pregnant, you’ll want to avoid taking flaxseed oil as there is a concern that it may lead to premature birth. To be safe, stay away from flaxseed oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding period.
Flaxseed oil may also cause complication if you have a bleeding disorder or scheduled for surgery. It can increase the risks of severe bleeding. Stop taking flaxseed oil at least 2 weeks before the surgery or if you have bleeding disorders.
You’ll also want to avoid taking flaxseed if you’re taking medications that slow blood clotting.
If you’re unsure, always consult your health practitioners or doctors before taking flaxseed oil. (17)
How To Use Flaxseed Oil
There are various ways that you could use flax seed oil to good effect.
For a start, you can replace regular cooking oil with flaxseed oil when preparing meals. However, this is not recommended as the heat may damage some of the properties of the flaxseed oil.
You can also add flax seed oil into a salad or when you’re making smoothies. A tablespoon of flaxseed oil is often sufficient.
Flaxseed oil is commonly available in capsules and liquid form. If you want to keep things simple, you can take flaxseed oil directly from the capsules.
If you’re using flaxseed oil for skin health, you’ll want to apply it evenly on your skin.
How To Choose The Right Flaxseed Oil Supplements
There are thousands of flaxseed oil supplements in the market. It can be hard to choose the good ones from the mediocre ones. To ensure you made the right choice when choosing flaxseed oil, always consider these factors before buying.
- Organic – When consuming flaxseed oil, you’ll want to be sure the plant that the oil is derived is free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Therefore, look for flaxseed oil products that carry the USDA organic sign.
- Capsules or Liquid – This is a matter of personal preference. If you don’t like taking capsules, you’ll want to get liquid flaxseed oil and vice versa.
- Extraction Method – Flaxseed oil must be cold-pressed to preserve its nutritional properties and untainted by solvents.
- Packaging and Storage – It’s also important that the flaxseed oil is packaged and stored in a temperature sensitive environment to maintain its potency.
Where To Buy Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oils are commonly available. You can get flaxseed oils at local grocers, health stores or organic outlets. If you prefer to shop online, you can visit the vendor’s website or online retailers.
Best Flaxseed Oil Supplements 2020
Important: If you’re suffering from any medical conditions, you’re advised to consult your doctor before using these supplements. This article is not written by a medical professional, health expert or a doctor. Thus, it is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment.
To simplify your choice, I’ve shortlisted some of the best flaxseed oil supplements available, based on the criteria I’ve highlighted above. That means you’ll have nothing but superior, organic flaxseed oil in this list.
1. Barlean’s Fresh Organic Flax Oil (Liquid)
- Omega 3 ALA: 7,640 mg per serving (1 tablespoon)
The father of Barlean’s was a fisherman. He was known to deliver freshly caught salmons across the state. His son would eventually take the family business to a different direction by offering a different source of Omega 3; flaxseed. The company has won multiple awards throughout its more than 2 decades of operation.
Your needs for an unrefined and pure flaxseed oil will be met by this fresh organic flax oil by Barlean’s. Known for its superior quality, the flax oil contains a high concentration of ALA Omega-3 fatty acid. A single tablespoon will give you 7,230mg of the required ALA.
The potency of the flax oil is assured as the oil is cold-pressed and protected from heat and light. Besides being certified organic, the flax oil is non-GMO, Kosher and gluten-free. It’s easy to introduce flax oil as a supplement. You can add a tablespoon on the salad or smoothies.
Pros
- USDA Organic certified.
- Cold-pressed to protect its nutritional properties.
- Kosher, non-GMO and gluten-free.
Cons
- Some people received defective products.
2. DEVA Vegan Vitamins Organic Flax Seed Oil (Softgel)
- Omega 3 ALA: 535 mg per serving (1 softgel)
DEVA Nutrition was founded in 2003 as a nutritional supplement business catering to vegans and vegetarians. It has since been growing steadily in the US and expanded to overseas market with its high-quality products. The company is also active in championing social and environmental causes.
These flaxseed softgels by DEVA are suitable for vegans. They are made from organically farmed flax plants and cold-pressed to ensure the nutrients of the oil are retained. If you’re not comfortable taking flax oil in liquid form, the softgels will be a better and tasteless option.
The flaxseed oil softgels do not contain any ingredients derived from animals and that has been verified by the Vegan Society. It is recommended that you take two softgels daily to boost your heart and brain functions.
Pros
- Vegan and vegetarian-friendly.
- Organic, cold-pressed, unrefined.
- Vegan society registered
Cons
- Some products are spoiled.
3. Nature Made Organic Flaxseed Oil (Softgels)
- Omega 3 ALA: 700 mg per serving (1 softgel)
Nature Made is fully committed to the well-being of the community. It has been committed to clinical research and has made it a point to base every supplement on proven facts. For more than four decades, it has never compromised on the quality and that means sourcing only the best ingredients.
If you need a boost for your heart health, this bottle of organic flaxseed oil by Nature Made will be a fine option. It is rich with ALA, a form of Omega-3 fatty acid that is converted to DHA and EPA by your body.
The purity of the flaxseed oil is assured by the USP verification. USP is an independent organization that assures quality and purity recognition. It is recommended that you take a soft gel daily with a meal as some people may suffer from mild constipation when taking flaxseed oil.
Pros
- Made from organic flaxseeds.
- USP verified for purity.
- Gluten-free softgel.
Cons
- Some people received spoiled items.
4. Solgar – Earth Source Organic Flaxseed Oil (Liquid)
- Omega 3 ALA: 6,975 mg per serving (1 tablespoon)
Solgar has been producing top quality nutritional supplements since 1947. It has established itself as a leading brand in a competitive industry by prioritizing ethically produced products to empower the well-being of the public.
This organic flaxseed oil has a highly concentrated amount of Omega-3 fatty acids. Besides, it is also a natural source of Omega-9 fatty acids to promote heart, nerve and skin health. The oil is derived from flaxseeds with a solvent-free cold pressing method.
The potency and purity of the flaxseed oil are assured as the flaxseed oil was protected from contact with oxygen during the extraction process. You will be receiving the flaxseed oil in an amber glass bottle, which kept the oil from direct exposure to heat and light.
Pros
- Solvent-free cold-pressed extraction.
- Made from organic flax seeds.
- Packaged in an amber bottle for light and heat protection.
Cons
- Some people received bad-tasting flax oil.
5. NatureWise Organic Flaxseed Oil (Softgels)
- Omega 3 ALA: 720 mg per serving (1 softgel)
NatureWise balances its commitment to quality products with care and compassion. It believes that the best way to empower the well-being of others is by working with nature. Thus, all the ingredients used by the company are non-GMO and organic, ensuring the purity of the products.
You’ll be getting 720 mg of ALA Omega-3 fatty acid from a single tablespoon of NatureWise organic flaxseed oil. Your body needs Omega-3 fatty acids to ensure a better brain and heart health. Your immune system as a whole will also benefit from taking the flaxseed oil softgels.
The flaxseed oil softgels are a good alternative to fish oil, and it’s more sustainable for the environment. Only organic flaxseeds are used to produce the flax oil and the purity is assured as the extraction involves no heat. Third party testing is done to verify the potency and safety of the supplement.
Pros
- Produced from organic flax-seeds.
- 60% ALA Omega 3 fatty acids.
- Third party testing for safety and purity.
Cons
- Some products delivered are rancid.
6. Organic Flaxseed Oil Softgels by Vitalité Now! (Softgels)
- Omega 3 ALA: not specifically stated.
Being afflicted by autoimmune diseases has made a family started Vitalité Now!, a nutritional supplement business that is based on non-traditional solutions. The company collaborated with medical experts and ensures the entire process chain is meticulously controlled to produce high-quality supplements.
If you’re uncomfortable with the fishy aftertaste of fish oil and need a healthy dose of Omega-3 fatty acids, you can try taking these organic flaxseed oil softgels by Vitalité Now!. The flax seed oils are cold-pressed from organic flax seeds, which ensures purity and chemical-free flax oil.
The flax oil softgels are produced in a GMP-certified facility and is assured to be of the highest standards. Taking a single capsule of flaxseed oil daily will help you to maintain a healthy digestive system. Your cardiovascular health will also improve with the intake of Omega-3 fatty acids in the flax oil.
Pros
- Cold-pressed from organic flax seeds.
- Made in a GMP-certified facility.
- No stomach discomfort.
Cons
- Rare cases of customers received defective products.
7. Organic Vegan Flaxseed Oil by Sports Research (Softgels)
- Omega 3 ALA: 720 mg per serving (1 softgel)
The history of Sports Research started in 1980, where a family-owned business established itself by providing high-quality health products to promote well-being. Every single supplement are developed from the results of extensive research and made available at an affordable price.
You’ll have the full range of Omega 3,6 and 9 fatty acids with these flaxseed oil softgels by Sports Research. Specifically, a single softgel contains 720 mg of ALA, a fatty acid used to produce DHA and EPA. They are essential to boosting your physical and mental well-being.
The oil is cold-pressed from organic flax seeds. There are no additives or fillers involved in the manufacturing of the flaxseed oil softgels. The softgels are non-GMO verified and vegan-friendly. Taking a single capsule daily will give you the sufficient Omega-3 that you need.
Pros
- Extracted from organically harvested flax seeds.
- Non-GMO and vegan-friendly.
- Cold pressed to preserve nutritional properties.
Cons
- Some products are found to be defective.
8. Puritan’s Pride Organic Flaxseed Oil (Liquid)
- Omega 3 ALA: 6,975 mg per serving (1 tablespoon)
Puritan’s Pride was established in 1973 and is one of the leading health products company. For more than four decades, it has held on to the principle of honesty in every aspect of its business. The company believes that every customer has the right to know the origin of the supplements they take.
A single tablespoon of Puritan’s Pride flaxseed oil will deliver 6,975 mg of ALA Omega-3 fatty acid for you. The oil is derived from the finest seeds of flax plant by cold pressing in a temperature-controlled environment.
The result is a pure and potent flaxseed oil that you can take to boost your physical and mental health. It is recommended that you take one tablespoon daily to get the best of flaxseed. You can mix it with oats or drinks or take it directly.
Pros
- Certified organic.
- Cold-pressed without solvent.
- Processed in climate and light-controlled environment.
Cons
- Some individuals received flax oil that gone bad.
9. Premium Organic Flaxseed Oil Softgels by Nutrisage (Softgel)
- Omega 3 ALA: not specifically stated.
Nutrisage is a relatively new company in the nutritional supplements industry. However, that doesn’t deter it from setting a respectable standard by producing premium-quality products. The founder intends to produce the cleanest and purest supplements in the industry and nothing has stopped him since.
You’ve heard that Omega-3 fatty acids are good for your heart and this premium organic flaxseed oil softgels by NutriSage is a great way to start. The flax oil is extracted from organic flax seeds and processed in a GMP-certified facility.
Compared to fish oil, the softgels would not cause fishy burps or leaves an unpleasant aftertaste. You’ll find it pleasant and easy to swallow. Without any fillers or additives, you’ll be getting the full range of benefits of flaxseed oil right from nature.
Pros
- Made from organic flax seeds.
- Cold pressed to preserve nutritional properties.
- Produced in a GMP-certified facility.
Cons
- The flax oil is not vegan-friendly.
10. Organic Premium Flaxseed Oil Capsules by Vita Day (Softgels)
- Omega 3 ALA: 588 mg (1 capsule)
Vita Day was founded in 2015, with the objective of delivering health-enhancing products to as many people as possible. The founder intends to produce effective supplements that could make up for the vitamin and minerals people missed out in their daily meals.
The flaxseed oil capsules by Vita Day is a healthy dose of Omega 3,6 and 9 fatty acids to boost your physical and mental health. You’ll find that the capsules contain pure flaxseed oil that is extracted from organic sources.
You wouldn’t get any nasty aftertaste from the flaxseed oil capsules when you make it a part of your supplement routine. You can be assured of the purity as the capsules are made in a GMP-certified facility.
Pros
- Made from organic flax seeds.
- Processed in a GMP-certified facility.
- No nasty aftertaste.
Cons
- No organic label on the package.
Before you start taking flaxseed oil from the bottle, you’ll want to check if it is in good condition. As you have noted, some products do turn rancid even if they are from top-rated suppliers. If you end up with bad products, do get a refund from the vendor.
Ultimately, flaxseed oil is a beneficial supplement that has undeniable nutritional value. I hope you’re more informed with this article and managed to choose the right flaxseed oil supplement for your diet.
Related:
Leave A Comment