The power of organic flaxseed

There’s been plenty of discussion about the importance of including omega 3 fatty acids in the diet. These are now included within the category of beneficial lipids, which are necessary for circulatory health, neurological development, and the integrity of cell membranes throughout the body. A regular intake of omega 3 will assist in maintaining the health and efficiency of the circulatory system. The majority of clinical research has involved alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) which is now understood to lower blood cholesterol and triglycerides. By improving the flexibility of blood vessels and acting as an anti inflammatory, ALA lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and the major symptoms: angina, heart attack, and stroke.

Flaxseed oil is one of the better plant-derived sources of omega 3 fatty acids. Most health food shops and organic distributors will carry supplies of cold pressed flaxseed oil in its liquid or capsule form. The oil itself has a slightly bitter aftertaste but is pleasant when combined with vinegar in a cold salad dressing. It is preferable to avoid heating this oil as the active compounds are notoriously fragile and subject to degradation. This explains why quality control, processing, storage and handling issues are critical. To achieve optimum therapeutic efficacy, the oil must be fresh and protected from heat, light, and atmospheric oxygen. It should generally be packaged in opaque plastic containers and stored in the refrigerator once opened. We always recommend that consumers purchase an organically certified flaxseed product since this eliminates the risk of residual pesticide and herbicide compounds.

Flaxseed oil capsules are often convenient for maintaining a prescribed therapeutic dosage of ALA. Of course, if you are taking flaxseed for the first time to treat an existing medical condition or combining this product with other medications, it is essential to receive qualified advice from a medical practitioner.