What are the benefits of flaxseed oil?

Flaxseed is renowned for its many health benefits. Whether it is due to their high fibre and protein content or their satiety effect, which helps to control weight fluctuations. Given its optimal nutritional profile, it is not surprising that this oil is also good for your health. Moreover, it can be used in cooking as well as for skin care. Flaxseed oil is made by crushing and pressing the seeds, so that they release their natural oil.

Omega 3: What is the impact on my health?

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for the development and function of the retina, the brain and the heart the nervous system. Sufficient intake of omega 3 is therefore essential for women of childbearing age, pregnant women, nursing mothers and children.

In the cardiovascular field, scientific data also proves that the consumption of omega 3 fatty acids favours :

Lowering blood pressure in people with high blood pressure;
Reducing the level of triglycerides in the blood, a type of fat that, in excess, contributes to the development of heart disease;

In addition, recent data show that EPA and DHA play a role in brain function in adults and during ageing and suggest a positive effect on the maintenance of mental health(depression, dementiaincludingAlzheimer‘s disease). Finally, EPA and DHA are also involved in the prevention of age-related macular degeneration(AMD). Indeed, a deficiency in these fatty acids can increase the risk of AMD.

An oil rich in Omega3

Flaxseed oil is an excellent sourceofOmega 3. Moreover, these fatty acids are beneficial for cardiovascular health. Since you need to consume them daily, it is interesting to knowthatjust one tablespoon of flaxseed oil can cover your daily ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) needs. If you are vegan, or if you eat very little oily fish during the week (less than three times), we invite you to supplement with flaxseed oil to cover your body’s daily needs.

Flaxseed oil and cardiovascular health

Studies have shown that flaxseed oil-based food supplements (such as those offered by the NaturesPlus brand) are capable of boosting the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body. More specifically the levelsofEPA and DHA. EPA and DHA are essential compounds to promote a healthy heart and prevent heart disease. ALA is converted to EPA and DHA in the body, while flaxseed naturally contains omega-3 fatty acids.

What about the gut?

Flaxseed oil has laxative properties. As a result, in a study of 50 haemodialysis patients, daily supplementation with flaxseed oil helped to relieving constipation. A small study in 2012 of people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found that flaxseed was able to relieve the symptoms of IBS, including constipation and diarrhoea.

Flaxseed oil and skin health

ALA is a powerful antioxidant. Cosmetic manufacturers often attribute‘anti-ageing‘ properties to it. Daily supplementation with linseed oil leads to a considerable reduction in skin sensitivity, transepidermal water loss and skin surface irregularity. At the same time, there is an increase in skin hydration and smoothness. In summary, these data show that daily consumption of flaxseed oil helps to regulate the condition of the skin. In addition, research shows that flaxseed oil can help reduce skin cell inflammation and promote skin regeneration.

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