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Does Flaxseed Oil Reduce Cholesterol?

Flaxseed oil is derived from flaxseeds, nature's richest source of omega-3 fatty acids. The healthiest way to ingest flax is to grind the seeds in a coffee grinder and sprinkle on food, or add its oil to fruit shakes or salad dressings. Flaxseed oil lowers cholesterol and blood triglycerides because in addition to omega-3 it also contains omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids, B vitamins, potassium, lecithin, magnesium, fiber, protein and zinc. Include flaxseed oil in your daily diet and you should be able to lower your cholesterol within one to two weeks.

  1. How Does Flaxseed Oil Reduce Cholesterol?

    • Flaxseed oil helps reduce cholesterol thanks to its fiber, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and omega-3 fatty acid content. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in food such as salmon and flax and also help keep blood platelets from sticking together, reducing the likelihood of a heart attack.

      Flaxseed oil, in particular, has a higher concentration of ALA than the seeds alone. Because of the anti-inflammatory properties of ALA, consuming flaxseed oil can aid in reducing cholesterol levels.

    How to Eat Flaxseed Oil

    • Instead of just downing a tablespoon of flaxseed oil, add it to other foods for a tastier option. Flaxseed oil can be combined with just about any liquid including pasta sauces and yogurt, or add it to a whey protein milk shake. Avoid cooking with it because high heat can cause the oil to become rancid.

      Be sure you purchase high-quality flaxseed oil because it has a short shelf life and can easily go bad. The best way to maintain the oil's freshness is to keep it refrigerated and away from light. Also, it will take time for your body to absorb the full effects of flaxseed oil, so allow at least six days before tracking cholesterol changes.

    How Much Flaxseed Oil to Eat

    • Adults should consume approximately one to two tablespoons of flaxseed oil a day. Flaxseed oil can be safely eaten by people with gluten and wheat allergies, too. Before you add flaxseed oil to every dish, know that eating too much flaxseed oil can have unpleasant side effects. This includes loose stools and diarrhea. Consult a physician if you have a bleeding disorder, are pregnant or are breastfeeding before beginning a flaxseed oil regimen.

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