Flax seed, a fish oil alternative

vaalon | May 25, 2010 |

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There are a wide range of nutritional supplements on the market these days. In order to gain market share in this billion-dollar industry many manufacturers will make outlandish claims on what their products can accomplish. One product which does not need any slick marketing in order to promote sales is flax seed. This powerful supplement has been shown to provide a number of health benefits and is relatively inexpensive. Flax seed is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Using omega-3 fatty acid as a supplement has been shown to greatly increase cardiovascular health in many people. This could lead to the reduction of heart disease and stroke. Also, many people use flax seed to relieve minor constipation. This supplement can be gentler on the digestive system than many other laxatives on the market. Many people also believe in the virtues of using flax seed to clear up acne. Some research has even investigated the use of flax seed to treat depression since this is one of the benefits that comes with omega 3 from fish oil.

Many people have heard of using fish oil as an omega-3 fatty acid supplement. It is true, fish oil is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and even contains more omega-3 than flax seed in addition to other fish oil benefits. However, many people are unable to take fish oil either as a supplement or obtaining it through eating fish. Many vegetarians will not take fish oil or eat fish. Flax can be a great alternative to receive a healthy amount of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. Flax seed is available in either seed or oil form. Flax seed oil often comes in soft gels which look very much like fish oil capsules. This can be a great way to receive omega-3 fatty acids.

Many people enjoy buying the seeds instead because they offer other flax seed benefits in addition to those only coming from the oil. These can easily be chewed, much like sunflower seeds, and can be mixed in with different foods. They can even be used as a topping on salads. Flax seed can be found in a variety of different stores. The popularity of this omega-3 fatty acid supplement has made it a big seller and many stores will stock it. A much better variety will be found in the nutritional specialty stores such as GNC. However, even big box retailers will stock a few different varieties in their nutritional supplements isle. So, if you are looking for an alternative to fish oil in order to receive a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids then flax seed may be a great choice for you.