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Flax Seed Oil

"Wherever flax seed becomes a regular food item among the people, there will be better health."
- Mahatma Gandhi

Flax is the common name for a herb of the Linaceae Family. Flax, also known as linseed, used to be one of the major sources of cloth fibre (Linen) until the cotton industry took over. The oil is extracted from organically grown flax seeds using a special cold-pressing process, which minimizes the damaging effects of light, oxygen and heat.

Flax may offer double protection against serious health conditions due to its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids appear to block the action of cancer-promoting prostaglandins and may help to prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol and triglycerides in people with elevated blood lipids. Natural blood thinners, omega-3s may prevent dangerous blood clots, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Flax's power in the body is tempered by its fragility in liquid form. Keep flax oil refrigerated and use it quickly, as it will rapidly break down and turn rancid.

Why should I consider supplementing with flax seed oil?

Our bodies are unable to produce the essential fatty acids (EFAs) contained in Flax Seed Oil. In order to gain these we must consume this natural substance through dietary or supplement consumption. Surveys prove that around 80% of the population is deficient in EFAs. Commercial refinement of foods containing fats and oils has almost eliminated EFA from our food chain. Flax seed oil is unique as it contains both essential fatty acids, alpha-linolenic (an Omega-3 fatty acid) and linoleic acid (an Omega-6 Fatty acid) in generous amounts.

Flax seed oil is one of the richest sources of Omega-3 EFAs. It has 57% more Omega-3 fatty acids than fish oils.) EFAs are needed for the body to make "Prostaglandin's" which are hormone like substances. There are two EFAs that we need: Linoleic acid (Omega 6) and Linolenic Acid (Omega 3). A lack of these two fatty acids can cause a decrease in Testosterone levels. It is a valuable addition to the daily diet of both regular people and bodybuilders.

But if I eat fat, surely I will become fat?

No, it is not a question of fat, It is a question of the right fat. Flax Seed Oil is one of the healthiest sources of fat. It is understandable that some are reluctant to increase their fat intake for fear that they will get fat but no-one has ever gotten fat from consuming Flax Seed Oil in any quantity. Cutting out fats is good from a cardiovascular viewpoint but it reduces Testosterone levels. To ensure that Testosterone levels remain at an acceptable level, Flax Seed Oil and EFAs seem to be the healthiest fats to consume. Every diet needs a percentage of Fat. Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids are anti-lipogenic (which means they block fat storage) and increase beta oxidation (fat burning).

So what types of fat does flax seed oil contain?

One gram of flax seed oil typically contains the following:

Can I cook with flax seed oil?

No, Flax Seed Oil in liquid form is very sensitive and is degraded by light, heat and air. Manufacturers often recommend that the Flax Seed Oil be kept inside its original box, inside the fridge. In liquid form Flax Seed Oil can be consumed straight from the bottle, over a salad or in a smoothie or shake.

Note: Linseed Oil (Alternative name Flax Seed Oil) can also be found in DIY shops. This is the same product as Flax Seed Oil and is used as a varnish but it is NOT REFINED TO FOOD GRADE. Do not drink this varnish!

Flax Seed Oil applications in summary

Dosage

5-15ml - Higher levels can be used under the guidance of a nutritionally orientated physician.

Potential applications

Hypertension, atherosclerosis, elevated cholesterol/triglycerides, allergies, eczema, psoriasis, rheumatoid/osteoarthritis, auto-immune disorders, fatigue, multiple sclerosis, learning difficulties, ADHD, acne, dry skin, dandruff, infections, candida, sports nutrition (particularly endurance training).

Known contraindications

None known.

Use in conjunction with

Flax seed oil links well with l-carnitine, hawthorn, magnesium and Co Q10 in formulating a cardiovascular protective programme.

Note

Flax oil would appear best taken with other food as research reveals that protein and fats work together.

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