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The conflict over which is better, flaxseed oil vs fish oil
continues. The opinions about these supplements run wide.
Both flaxseed oil and fish oil contain omega-3 fatty acids which
are essential to multiple organs and tissues of the human body.
However, the question is, what are the differences between the
omega-3s in flaxseed oil vs. fish oil?
Currently scientists agree that omega-3s are of great benefit to
the brain and heart development and overall health. These beneficial
omega-3s are DHA and EPA and they are found in high quality fish oil
supplements unlike flaxseed oil which contains the omega-3 ALA.
So it seems that comparing flaxseed oil to fish oil may be like
comparing apples to oranges; they are both fruits but are very
different. While they both have their benefits and can each help in
various ways they are in fact doing different things for the body.
There are people who prefer one to the other for personal reasons.
Vegetarians, who will not eat fish, clearly will not take fish oil
supplements, but need the intake of omega-3 from some source.
Therefore, they can take the flaxseed oil and accomplish much of this
goal.
It is said that flaxseed oil helps with the symptoms of hot flashes
in menopausal patients. However, it is also noted that flaxseed oil
has some serious side effects including, but not limited to increased
risk of prostate cancer, painful inflammations, loose stools and
severe gas.
Fish oil supplements are claimed to help with weight loss and good
weight maintenance. It is also thought that fish oil supplements help
to fight off weight loss and dieting depression as well. This along
with fighting off heart disease and stroke, promoting healthy brain
function and warding off some types of cancer make fish oil an
appealing option.
All of these factors should be considered when deciding if flaxseed
oil or fish oil supplement is the right choice for your health and
daily life. You should consult with a physician when making any major
dietary changes involving adding supplements as some supplements have
adverse effects on some medications. Additionally be cautious when
starting any new supplement if you have any health issues. The new
supplement could aggravate some health conditions making symptoms
worse.
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