An oil that may reduce inflammation and promote heart and gut health Flaxseed oil is made from ground and pressed flaxseeds, traditionally used as laxatives and for wound healing. Flaxseed oil contains many active compounds that are thought to provide benefits, including:
What can I do with flaxseed oil?
Use as a salad oil or in cold sauces. Add to juice, shakes, or smoothies. Do not use in stir-fries or when baking. When exposed to heat, the oil can form harmful chemicals. Flaxseed oil is also a common additive in commercially available foods. Supplements are available as softgel capsules.
Can flaxseed oil cause intestinal blockage?
Possible side effects include: These side effects can be minimized by taking flaxseed oil with plenty of water and by taking it at recommended doses. Rarely, flaxseed may cause intestinal blockage, but flaxseed oil doesn’t seem to carry this risk. Allergic reactions are also possible. Avoid flaxseed oil if you are:
Does flaxseed oil increase omega-3 fatty acids?
Studies have found that flaxseed oil supplements can increase levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are essential compounds for promoting a healthy heart and preventing heart disease.
Does flaxseed oil have side effects?
When taken in the right dose, flaxseed oil has few side effects. It can be added to juice, salads, smoothies, body cream, or your hair. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have an upcoming surgery or have a bleeding disorder, you should consult your healthcare provider before trying this supplement. How can I avoid the side effects of flaxseed oil?
How much flaxseed oil should I eat a day?
The dose of flaxseed oil is often calculated based on the ALA content and advertised as milligrams of omega-3. Many studies used a dose of 1,000 milligrams (mg) of flaxseed oil omega-3 fatty acids. Recommended daily values of ALA are 1,100 mg for people assigned female at birth and 1,600 mg for people assigned male at birth.