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Is Omega-3 From Flax Oil the Same As Omega-3 From Fish?

Omega three fatty acids are essential fats needed by the body. However, the human body does not make omega three fats so they must be consumed from the foods we eat. Both fish and flax seed oil contain different types of omega three fatty acids, which are good for the body. However, both flax oil and fish oil have unique health benefits. Flax seed oil contains a good source of omega three, but fish oil has a different structure and a double dose of omega three fats. For unknown reasons, the body uses the omega three fats in fish much faster as compared to flax seed oil.

  1. Types

    • Omega-3 from fish oil is more potent than omega-3 from flax oil because fish oil contains two different types of omega-3 fats and flax seed oil contains one. There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid, (EPA). Fish oil contains EPA and DHA. Flax seed oil contains ALA. Flax seed oil is still good for you because it does contain a needed form of omega-3, but fish oil is more well rounded.

    Benefits

    • All three fatty acids are beneficial to the body in various ways. DHA is a brain-building fatty acid, which makes it one of the most vital types. A large portion of the human brain is made up of DHA. DHA is also essential for pregnant women because during pregnancy the the body actually takes DHA from a woman's brain to give to the baby through the placenta. This is why women who are deficient in DHA will have memory problems during pregnancy. Supplementing with DHA before, during and after pregnancy can help a woman maintain mental sharpness during the child-bearing years. DHA is also good for the eyes and heart. The brain-boosting benefits of DHA are well known, which is why it is added to baby formula and other foods. Mother's breast milk also contains generous amounts of DHA.

      EPA is critical because this fatty acid is helpful at reducing inflammation in the body, which helps to lessen the effects of disease, colds, infection and other health conditions like arthritis or eczema. In addition, EPA is also good for the heart because it helps to lower high triglycerides. Triglycerides clog arteries and lead to heart disease.

      ALA is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that also helps to reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

    Significance

    • Both flax seed oil and fish oil are excellent food choices. The body needs a variety of different vitamins and minerals from various foods. The same is true for oils and fats. The body needs to get omega three oils from many sources for optimal health results. Some people like to take both flax and fish oil in addition to eating fish and other foods rich in omega-3 like nuts, seeds and eggs. Combining these foods ensures that you are giving your body a good balance of omega three fats.

    Considerations

    • If you are a vegetarian or if you do not like fish, you may want to consider supplementing your diet with other vegan sources of DHA and EPA. Bountiful quantities of DHA and EPA are found in sea algae such as spirulina and chlorella. You can buy both supplements in pill or powder form at your local health food store.

    Warning

    • When shopping for flax seed oil, be sure to buy organic varieties. Nonorganic oils may contain harmful pesticides and other residues. When buying fish choose types of fish that contain the highest levels of omega-3 fats, such as salmon or trout. Salmon that is wild caught is generally safe. In addition, buy fish oil that has been tested for purity. Carlson's cod liver oil is quality tested. You can find this brand in most health food stores.

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