Flax Seed Oil

"Wherever flax seed becomes a regular food item among the people, there will be better health."
- Mahatma Gandhi

Flax is the common name for a herb of the Linaceae Family. Flax, also known as linseed, used to be one of the major sources of cloth fibre (Linen) until the cotton industry took over. The oil is extracted from organically grown flax seeds using a special cold-pressing process, which minimizes the damaging effects of light, oxygen and heat.

Flax may offer double protection against serious health conditions due to its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids appear to block the action of cancer-promoting prostaglandins and may help to prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol and triglycerides in people with elevated blood lipids. Natural blood thinners, omega-3s may prevent dangerous blood clots, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Flax's power in the body is tempered by its fragility in liquid form. Keep flax oil refrigerated and use it quickly, as it will rapidly break down and turn rancid.

Why should I consider supplementing with flax seed oil?

Our bodies are unable to produce the essential fatty acids (EFAs) contained in Flax Seed Oil. In order to gain these we must consume this natural substance through dietary or supplement consumption. Surveys prove that around 80% of the population is deficient in EFAs. Commercial refinement of foods containing fats and oils has almost eliminated EFA from our food chain. Flax seed oil is unique as it contains both essential fatty acids, alpha-linolenic (an Omega-3 fatty acid) and linoleic acid (an Omega-6 Fatty acid) in generous amounts.

Flax seed oil is one of the richest sources of Omega-3 EFAs. It has 57% more Omega-3 fatty acids than fish oils.) EFAs are needed for the body to make "Prostaglandin's" which are hormone like substances. There are two EFAs that we need: Linoleic acid (Omega 6) and Linolenic Acid (Omega 3). A lack of these two fatty acids can cause a decrease in Testosterone levels. It is a valuable addition to the daily diet of both regular people and bodybuilders.

But if I eat fat, surely I will become fat?

No, it is not a question of fat, It is a question of the right fat. Flax Seed Oil is one of the healthiest sources of fat. It is understandable that some are reluctant to increase their fat intake for fear that they will get fat but no-one has ever gotten fat from consuming Flax Seed Oil in any quantity. Cutting out fats is good from a cardiovascular viewpoint but it reduces Testosterone levels. To ensure that Testosterone levels remain at an acceptable level, Flax Seed Oil and EFAs seem to be the healthiest fats to consume. Every diet needs a percentage of Fat. Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids are anti-lipogenic (which means they block fat storage) and increase beta oxidation (fat burning).

So what types of fat does flax seed oil contain?

One gram of flax seed oil typically contains the following:

Superunsaturated Fatty acids: Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) - 5500mcg
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Linoleic Fatty Acid - 1700mcg
Saturated Fatty Acids: Palmitic Acid 60mg, Stearic Acid 40mcg
Monosaturated Fatty Acids: Oleic Acid 1, 800mcg

Can I cook with flax seed oil?

No, Flax Seed Oil in liquid form is very sensitive and is degraded by light, heat and air. Manufacturers often recommend that the Flax Seed Oil be kept inside its original box, inside the fridge. In liquid form Flax Seed Oil can be consumed straight from the bottle, over a salad or in a smoothie or shake.

Note: Linseed Oil (Alternative name Flax Seed Oil) can also be found in DIY shops. This is the same product as Flax Seed Oil and is used as a varnish but it is NOT REFINED TO FOOD GRADE. Do not drink this varnish!

Flax Seed Oil applications in summary

CARDIOVASCULAR TONIC - Flax oil is omega 3 rich (even more potent than fish oils) and so is highly beneficial in keeping all parts of the cardiovascular system maintained and lubricated. Omega 3 oils have been shown in hundreds of studies to lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels. Flax oil is also effective in decreasing blood pressure, platelet stickiness and in decreasing fibrinogen levels a key marker in atheroslerosis. Research has found that for every 1 percent increase in alpha-linolenic acid (omega 3) content there was a decrease of 5mm Hg in the systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure(Berry and Hirsch 1986).
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY / ALLERGIC - the omega 3 fatty acids help produce prostaglandin 3 series (PG3), the anti-inflammatory chemicals that work as local hormones in the body. Numerous clinical studies have shown good results in using Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) in the treatment of many chronic allergic and inflammatory diseases e.g. eczema, psoriasis, lupus and ulcerative colitis.
ANTI-ARTHRITIC - flax oil provides the key fatty shown to inhibit the inflammatory prostaglandin release in arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
METABOLISM ENHANCEMENT - EFA's have been shown to link with oxygen and enhance electron transport, key activities in energy output within the cell.
NERVE FUNCTION - EFA's are required for healthy cell membrane structures, particularly in nerve cells as they are required for the myelin sheath (insulation around the nerve cell).
BRAIN DEVELOPMENT - In children, EFA's (DHA specifically) are required for brain development
SKIN HEALTH - flax oil provides the fatty acids necessary for maintaining healthy and flexible cell membranes as well as exerting anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties.
IMMUNE ENHANCEMENT - EFA's have been found to enhance immune function, speed up the rate of immune reactions, help reestablish population control over intestinal bacteria, and enable improved cellular energy for removing waste materials. The rich alpha-linolenic acid content of flax oil has demonstrated efficacy in reducing mutagenicity of cells.
PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE - The omega 3 fatty acids found in flax seed oil help support the cardiovascular system and also reduce the negative effect on the immune system caused by intense exercise.

Dosage

5-15ml - Higher levels can be used under the guidance of a nutritionally orientated physician.

Potential applications

Hypertension, atherosclerosis, elevated cholesterol/triglycerides, allergies, eczema, psoriasis, rheumatoid/osteoarthritis, auto-immune disorders, fatigue, multiple sclerosis, learning difficulties, ADHD, acne, dry skin, dandruff, infections, candida, sports nutrition (particularly endurance training).

Known contraindications

None known.

Use in conjunction with

Flax seed oil links well with l-carnitine, hawthorn, magnesium and Co Q10 in formulating a cardiovascular protective programme.

Note

Flax oil would appear best taken with other food as research reveals that protein and fats work together.

Like this page? Please link to us and let the world know!

^ back to top