Flax Seed Oil And Omega 3

Flaxseed oil is next to fish one of the richest source of omega 3 fatty acids (alpha linolenic acid to be exact). Omega 3's became very popular over the last decade because of their numerous health benefits. The richest source of omega 3 fatty acids is fish, however not everyone likes to eat fish and so, flaxseed oil is an ideal substitute to make sure your diet contains sufficient amounts of omega 3 fatty acids.

The problem with typical "western diets" is that they have a severe lack of healthy omega 3 fats and are overloaded with omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 3's act as anti-inflammatory agents, whereas omega 6 fats provoke inflammation and therefore might increase the risk for certain health problems, like arthritis and cardiovascular diseases.

Both, omega 3 - and omega 6 fats are essential fatty acids and they have to be provided from external sources. However, the important thing is the ratio at which they are present in your diet. Ideal omega 3 to omega 6 ratios are somewhere between 1 to 3 and 1 to 5. Some Americans show ratios as high as 1 to 50 in their diets.

Using flax seed oil along with other nutrients rich in omega 3's, like walnuts, fish, green leafy vegetables… is the best way to obtain the ideal omega 3 to omega 6 ratios in your diet.

Flaxseed also contains lignans, which act as anti-oxidants and might help to prevent certain diseases like cancer - however, not everyone agrees on this.

Below is a short list of some of the health benefits from omega 3 fatty acids:

* Lower cholesterol levels
* Prevent cardiovascular diseases
* Control high blood pressure.
* Omega-3 fatty acids appear to limit the inflammatory reaction associated with lupus.
* Control constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticular disorders.
* Reduce the risk cor cetain types of cancer, like breast-, colon-, and prostate cancer.

Flaxseed oil is the easiest form to use, but if you prefer, you can also use ground flaxseeds. Simply add 1 or 2 tablespoons of to an 8-ounce glass of water and mix it. You can also add flaxseeds to your salads, cooked vegetables and cereals.

I recommend you either buy ground flaxseed or grind the seeds, because whole seeds simply pass through the body. Keep the seeds refrigerated to preserve the flavor and nutritional value. If you take flaxseed oil, mix it food for best absorption. You can add flax seed oil to your salads, soups, cereals and other dishes.

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