Flaxseed oil

Silver· human data

Also known as: Linseed oil, ALA

A plant omega-3 (ALA) that converts only poorly to the active EPA and DHA.

Flaxseed oil is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the plant omega-3. ALA is genuinely essential, but the body converts only a small percentage of it into the more active long-chain omega-3s EPA and DHA.

So while flax is a worthwhile part of a healthy diet, it is an inefficient way to raise EPA/DHA compared with oily fish or algae oil. Vegans wanting reliable EPA/DHA are usually better served by algae oil; flax remains a useful ALA and fibre source.

Sources

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Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

Last reviewed: