Tag: Flaxseed vs fish oil

The human body's conversion rate of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) from flaxseed into the more bioactive EPA and DHA is notoriously inefficient, often under 10% for EPA and even less for DHA. This raises a crucial question: is flaxseed enough for omega-3 requirements, especially for vegans or those avoiding marine sources?

Research indicates the human body poorly converts plant-based omega-3s, raising the critical question: is omega-3 from flaxseed as good as from fish? The answer depends on the specific types of fatty acids each source provides and how efficiently your body can use them.

While flaxseed oil is often praised as a plant-based omega-3 source, its ALA fatty acids convert inefficiently to EPA and DHA in the body, which is one of several disadvantages. It is crucial for consumers to be aware of the potential side effects and health risks before regularly supplementing with flaxseed oil.