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Fish Oil Supplements Vs. Flax Seed Oil

Fish oil and flaxseed oil are polyunsaturated fats found in foods and are available in dietary supplements. Both contain omega-3 essential fatty acids and are necessary in a healthy diet.

  1. Effects

    • Essential fatty acids include omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9; a balance of all three are recommended by the National Institutes of Health. Essential fatty acids support the reproductive, cardiovascular, immune and nervous system. They are considered "essential" because the body can't make them--they must be consumed. Fish oil and flaxseed oil contain omega-3.

    Features of Fish Oil

    • Fish oil is a source of vitamin A and D, and helps regulate cholesterol. It has the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, which help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

    Features of Flaxseed Oil

    • Flaxseed oil is one of nature's richest sources of omega-3, having 50 percent more omega-3 than fish oil. Recommended for vegans and vegetarians, it protects from heart disease, inflammation, premature skin aging and increases good cholesterol.

    Side Effects

    • According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, high doses of fish oil can interact with blood thinners and high blood pressure medication. Flax supplements can worsen constipation if not taken with sufficient water.

    Warning

    • Consult your health care provider if you are adding a new supplement to your diet, if you are pregnant or nursing, or considering giving omega-3 supplements to a child.

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