Flaxseed oil and fish oil are both excellent sources of omega 3 essential fatty acids, however, the types of essential fatty acids they contain are different. Flaxseed oil contains ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) which is usually converted by a healthy body into EPA and DHA, which are the more active substances in the body. Fish oil contains EPA and DHA already and so the body does not need to break this down.
In normal circumstances we are able to break down ALA into EPA and DHA and get the benefits of these substances, meaning that in most people there is little difference in the omega 3 fatty acid benefit gained from fish oil or flaxseed oil and both work just as well as the other. In diabetics and people suffering from schizophrenia however this break down does not occur effectively and so in order to gain the benefits of EPA and DHA diabetics and people with schizophrenia will find that fish oil works better than flax seed oil.
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Patients with high cholesterol however will find the opposite true. Fish oil often contains high levels of mercury which are dangerous for high blood pressure. Flaxseed oil does not contain this same high concentration of mercury and so would work better for patients suffering from high blood pressure.
There are also certain diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome, for which ALA appears to be more beneficial than EPA and DHA separately. ALA however may present problems for people suffering from macular degeneration although omega 3 in the form of EPA and DHA may help the condition, it is therefore better to take fish oil if you are suffering from macular degeneration. This may also be the case with prostrate cancer.
Beyond this whether you choose flax seed oil or fish oil may be more dependent on personal taste and lifestyle than which is more beneficial. Vegetarians and vegans for example would prefer flaxseed oil whereas others may prefer the fish oil supplements.
The important thing is to ensure that you take one of these substances that are high in omega 3 essential fatty acids that provide many benefits for body and mind. If you are a diabetic or schizophrenic choose fish oil, if you have high blood pressure rather go for flaxseed oil. If you suffer from macular degeneration or prostrate cancer you will also want to choose fish oil. Beyond that choose which oil fits your tastes and lifestyle better.
Does Flaxseed Oil Work As Well As Fish Oil Does? Ala
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