Description

Optimum Nutrition's Flaxseed Oil features potent omega 3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) derived from flaxseeds. Omega 3s help decrease the risk of heart disease, certain cancers, mood disorders, obesity and inflammation. Since the western diet is often deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, supplementation with flaxseed can have important nutritional benefits.

Omega 3s are considered an essential fatty acid because the body can't make them from other substances and they must be supplied by the diet. Fish oil omega 3s contain the biologically active essential fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Flaxseed contains the omega 3 essential fatty acid known as ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which requires conversion into biologically active EPA and DHA.

Although most heart studies feature fish oils EPA and DHA, flaxseed may produce similar benefits due to its high concentration of ALA which converts to EPA in the body. Due to the extra metabolic step required to convert ALA to EPA, the body may require a higher dose of flaxseed oil than fish oil. In order to obtain similar health benefits to fish oil, some experts recommend taking up to ten times as much flaxseed oil as fish oil. Fortunately, flaxseed oil can be added to salads and other foods as a condiment, as well as supplementation in soft gels and capsules.

Pros

Optimum Nutrition's Flaxseed Oil has been cold-pressed without the use of hexane or added heat. This careful extraction process helps preserve the molecular integrity of the omega 3s. It's packaged in a specially produced light-inhibiting bottle with airtight seals to protect it from harmful light rays and oxygen.

The nutrients in Flaxseed Oil have the following benefits:

• Contains beneficial ALA omega 3 essential fatty acids
• Lowers the risk of heart disease, cancer, inflammation and other chronic diseases
• Supports optimum wellness

Cons

With high doses of flaxseed oil, certain people may experience abdominal discomfort or mild diarrhea. Â

Flaxseed should not be taken at least 14 days prior to any type of surgery.

People with hemophilia, bowel obstruction, narrowing of the digestive tract, or inflammation of the stomach or intestines should not take flaxseed.

Pregnant or lactating women and children should consult a physician before taking Flaxseed Oil.

Be aware that some drugs and supplements may interact with the nutrients in Flaxseed Oil including:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• Aspirin
• Warfarin
• Bile acid sequestrants
• Orlistat
• Olestra containing products
• Chitosan
• Mineral oil
• Fish oils
• Garlic
• Ginkgo

Is it for you?

If you want to lower the risk of chronic diseases and promote optimum wellness, Flaxseed Oil can offer support.

However, people with hemophilia, bowel obstruction, narrowing of the digestive tract, or inflammation of the stomach or intestines should not take flaxseed. Pregnant or lactating women and children should consult a physician before taking Flaxseed Oil.

Dosage and Directions

Take 1 to 3 softgels daily, preferably with meals.

Refrigerate after opening.