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Flaxseed Oil Benefits

Updated on September 29, 2010

Flax Seed as Medicine

Photo Credit: CodeZero at flickr.com
Photo Credit: CodeZero at flickr.com

What Is Flax Seed Oil?

There are many potential flax seed oil benefits that are being researched by scientists today. Flax seed oil is also known as linseed oil. Flax seed oil is highly unsaturated and an excellent choice as a source for Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are seriously lacking in most modern diets consisting of processed foods. Flax seed oil contains the Omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA. The other important benefits of flaxseed oil are the omega-6 fatty acid called linolenic acid and lignans.

ALA Is One of the Most Important Flax Seed Oil Benefits

There are many potential flax seed oil benefits that are being researched by scientists today. Flax seed oil is also known as linseed oil. Flax seed oil is highly unsaturated and an excellent choice as a source for Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are seriously lacking in most modern diets consisting of processed foods. Flax seed oil contains the Omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA. The other important benefits of flaxseed oil are the omega-6 fatty acid called linolenic acid and lignans.

Lignins Are Also Important Flax Seed Oil Benefits

Lignins found in flaxseed are another one of the most important flax seed oil benefits. Lignins act as an anti-estrogen in the human body and may help prevent certain cancers and slow down the growth of existing tumors. Lignins also may help reduce or even prevent menopausal symptoms

Other Potential Benefits of Flax Seed Oil

Flax seed oil benefits are also being researched for diabetics. Flaxseed oil may help normalize blood sugar levels and prevent blood sugar spikes.

Another of the fantastic benefits of flax seed oil is that it can prevent or reduce PMS symptoms such as tender breasts, headaches, and bloating. The anti-estrogenic properties of flaxseed oil help to balance female hormones and reduce menstrual symptoms.

IBS sufferers may enjoy flax seed oil benefits. Flax seed oil seems to help with both constipation and diarrhea associated with IBS. This is because flaxseeds contains high amounts of fiber.

Some of the traditional uses for the benefits of flax seed oil were as a skin softener, laxative, and as a way to treat urinary tract infections.

Additional Flaxseed Oil Information

Flax seed oil has a light, nutty taste and can easily be added to recipes for a nutritional boost. However, do not use flaxseed oil to fry foods. It can't be heated at high temperatures and heat destroys the many benefits of flax seed oil. Flax seed oil is best used with salad dressings and such.

Flax seed oil goes rancid quickly. Only buy small amounts at a time and keep it refrigerated. It should be stored in a dark bottle, as sunlight will cause flaxseed oil to go bad faster.

Pregnant women and women who are breast feeding should consult with their doctor before consuming flaxseed oil. Thyroid disease patients and anyone taking blood thinner medication should also ask a physician for advice before using flax seed oil.

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