Research

Flaxseed Oil (ALA)

77 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.

9
Meta-analyses
1
Systematic reviews
62
RCTs
5
Other studies
Meta-analyses (12%)
Systematic reviews (1%)
RCTs (81%)

Studies

Sorted by quality and recency

2024·Frontiers in endocrinology·Qi Chu, Yue-Xin Yu, Jing-Zi Zhang, et al

Effects of flaxseed oil supplementation on metaphase II oocyte rates in IVF cycles with decreased ovarian reserve: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 218Womens Health

RCT exploring the effects of flaxseed oil on metaphase II oocyte rates in women with decreased ovarian reserve. Flaxseed oil reduced r-hFSH dosage and stimulation time, increased peak estradiol concentration, and improved MII oocyte rate, fertilization rate, cleavage rate, high-quality embryo rate, and blastocyst formation rate.

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2024·Therapeutic apheresis and dialysis : official peer-reviewed journal of the International Society for Apheresis, the Japanese Society for Apheresis, the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy·Reza Tabrizi, Zahra Azizi, Sina Bazmi, et al

The impact of flaxseed oil on lipid profiles, weight loss, and inflammatory markers in hemodialysis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysisInflammation Heart Health Nutrition -

This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs examined the effects of flaxseed oil on lipid profiles, weight loss, and inflammatory markers in hemodialysis patients. Flaxseed oil significantly decreased triglyceride and C-reactive protein levels, with higher doses improving lipid profiles. No significant effect on anthropometric measures was observed.

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2024·Complementary therapies in medicine·Vali Musazadeh, MohammadReza Abolghasemian, Zeynab Kavyani, et al

The effects of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) supplementation on anthropometric indices: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Meta-analysisPhysique

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of flaxseed supplementation on anthropometric indices across 64 trials. The analysis found significant reductions in body weight, BMI, and waist circumference, suggesting flaxseed as a potential anti-obesity agent.

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2022·Phytotherapy research : PTR·Trias Mahmudiono, Saade Abdalkareem Jasim, Yasir Salam Karim, et al

The effect of flaxseed oil consumtion on blood pressure among patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Meta-analysisHeart Health

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs examining the effect of flaxseed oil on blood pressure in patients with metabolic syndrome. Meta-analysis of five trials showed significant reductions in systolic blood pressure, but no significant change in diastolic blood pressure.

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2022·Phytotherapy research : PTR·Mahtab Zarei, Shaghayegh Adeli, Shabnam Hosseini, et al

The effect of flaxseed intake on appetite reduction: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials.

Systematic review

Systematic review of randomized clinical trials assessing the effect of flaxseed on appetite control. The review found inconsistent results, with some studies showing significant reductions in hunger and appetite, while others found no significant effects. Overall, the studies suggest a potential role for flaxseed in decreasing appetite and hunger.

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2020·Clinical nutrition ESPEN·Omid Reza Tamtaji, Alireza Milajerdi, Željko Reiner, et al

Effects of flaxseed oil supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysisInflammation Longevity

This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs analyzed the effects of flaxseed oil supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders. Flaxseed oil supplementation significantly reduced IL-6 and MDA levels and increased total antioxidant capacity, suggesting potential benefits in managing inflammation and oxidative stress.

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2014·Meat science·Carlo Corino, Raffaella Rossi, Susanna Cannata, et al

Effect of dietary linseed on the nutritional value and quality of pork and pork products: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,006Nutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 publications involving 1006 pigs to assess the effects of dietary linseed on pork nutritional quality. Feeding linseed improved the n-3 PUFA content in muscle and adipose tissue, with significant increases in ALA, EPA, DPA, and DHA levels.

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2024·Acta pharmaceutica (Zagreb, Croatia)·Mercedes Vitek, Mirjam Gosenca Matjaž

Clinical application of hempseed or flaxseed oil-based lyotropic liquid crystals: Evaluation of their impact on skin barrier function.

RCTSkin Hair Health

Double-blind, interventional trial evaluating the impact of hempseed or flaxseed oil-based lyotropic liquid crystals on skin barrier function in healthy adults. The study found a 2-fold reduction in TEWL values and a decrease in skin erythema levels, suggesting potential for AD treatment.

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2023·Nutrients·T. Ogawa, Kento Sawane, Kouta Ookoshi, et al

Supplementation with Flaxseed Oil Rich in Alpha-Linolenic Acid Improves Verbal Fluency in Healthy Older Adults

RCTn = 60Brain Health

RCT of 60 healthy older adults evaluating the effects of flaxseed oil rich in alpha-linolenic acid on cognitive functions. The intervention group showed significant improvement in verbal fluency scores compared to the control group after 12 weeks.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2021·International journal of clinical practice·Nava Morshedzadeh, Shabnam Shahrokh, Vahid Chaleshi, et al

The effects of flaxseed supplementation on gene expression and inflammation in ulcerative colitis patients: An open-labelled randomised controlled trial.

RCTn = 90Inflammation Gut Health

Open-labelled RCT of 90 ulcerative colitis patients comparing grounded flaxseed and flaxseed oil supplementation to control over 12 weeks. Both interventions significantly reduced hs-CRP and Mayo score, indicating reduced inflammation and improved disease severity. Quality of life improved significantly in the intervention groups.

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2021·The Journal of nutrition·Samantha D Pauls, Lisa R Rodway, Karanbir K Sidhu, et al

Oils Rich in α-Linolenic Acid or Docosahexaenoic Acid Have Distinct Effects on Plasma Oxylipin and Adiponectin Concentrations and on Monocyte Bioenergetics in Women with Obesity.

RCTInflammation -Hormone Health

RCT comparing the effects of 4g/day ALA-rich flaxseed oil and DHA-rich fish oil on plasma oxylipins and metabolic markers in women with obesity. Fish oil increased omega-3 oxylipins and adiponectin, while flaxseed oil altered monocyte bioenergetics. Neither supplement reduced inflammatory markers.

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2020·European journal of clinical nutrition·Zahra Yari, Makan Cheraghpour, Seyed Moayed Alavian, et al

The efficacy of flaxseed and hesperidin on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: an open-labeled randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 100Inflammation Nutrition

Open-labeled RCT assessing the effects of flaxseed and hesperidin on NAFLD in 100 patients. The study found that both supplements improved glucose and lipid metabolism, reduced inflammation, and decreased hepatic steatosis. Synergistic effects were observed on plasma glucose concentration and HOMA-IR.

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2020·European journal of nutrition·Zahra Yari, Makan Cheraghpour, Azita Hekmatdoost

Flaxseed and/or hesperidin supplementation in metabolic syndrome: an open-labeled randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 98Heart Health Inflammation Nutrition

This 12-week randomized controlled trial assessed the effects of flaxseed and hesperidin, alone and in combination, on metabolic syndrome in 98 patients. Flaxseed improved triglyceride levels, insulin, and insulin resistance, while hesperidin reduced systolic blood pressure and triglycerides. The combination of flaxseed and hesperidin was most effective, significantly reducing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

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2020·The British journal of nutrition·Shahla Rezaei, Mohammad Reza Sasani, Masoumeh Akhlaghi, et al

Flaxseed oil in the context of a weight loss programme ameliorates fatty liver grade in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomised double-blind controlled trial.

RCTn = 68Nutrition

This randomised, double-blind, controlled trial investigated the effect of flaxseed oil on fatty liver and cardiometabolic risk factors in 68 NAFLD patients. Flaxseed oil significantly decreased fatty liver grade, weight, and IL-6 levels compared to sunflower oil, within the context of a low-energy diet and moderate physical activity.

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2020·The British journal of nutrition·M. Jamilian, Z. Tabassi, Ž. Reiner, et al

The effects of omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil on genetic and metabolic profiles in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

RCTn = 60Hormone Health Heart Health Inflammation Nutrition

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effects of omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil on genetic and metabolic profiles in 60 women with gestational diabetes mellitus. Omega-3 supplementation improved gene expression related to insulin, lipid, and inflammation, reduced fasting plasma glucose, insulin levels, insulin resistance, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers, and increased insulin sensitivity and antioxidant levels compared to placebo.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2019·The ocular surface·Laura E Downie, Milton M Hom, Gregg J Berdy, et al

An artificial tear containing flaxseed oil for treating dry eye disease: A randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 242

RCT comparing a nano-emulsion artificial tear containing flaxseed oil and trehalose (OM3) to a similar formulation without these ingredients (ROA) in 242 subjects with dry eye disease. Significant improvements in OSDI, ocular staining, and TBUT were observed in both groups, with OM3 showing superior results in ocular staining. Treatment-related adverse events were lower in the OM3 group.

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2019·Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.)·Mehran Rahimlou, Nasrin Banaie Jahromi, Nazila Hasanyani, et al

Effects of Flaxseed Interventions on Circulating Inflammatory Biomarkers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Meta-analysisInflammation

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 RCTs on the effects of flaxseed-derived products on circulating inflammatory biomarkers in adults. Flaxseed significantly reduced hs-CRP and TNFα levels, but had no significant effect on IL6 and CRP. Results varied based on study design, supplement type, study quality, and participant characteristics.

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2018·Nutrition reviews·Mohsen Mohammadi-Sartang, Zahra Sohrabi, Reza Barati-Boldaji, et al

Flaxseed supplementation on glucose control and insulin sensitivity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 randomized, placebo-controlled trials.

Meta-analysisNutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of flaxseed on glycemic control. Flaxseed supplementation was associated with reductions in blood glucose, insulin levels, and HOMA-IR index, and an increase in QUIKI index, but no significant effect on HbA1c. Whole flaxseed showed significant effects, unlike flaxseed oil and lignan extract.

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2016·Nutrients·Guan-Yu Ren, Chun-Yang Chen, Guo-Chong Chen, et al

Effect of Flaxseed Intervention on Inflammatory Marker C-Reactive Protein: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Meta-analysisInflammation -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs evaluating the effect of flaxseed and its derivatives on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Overall, flaxseed interventions had no significant effect on reducing CRP, though a significant reduction was observed in obese populations.

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2013·British poultry science·D C N Lopes, E G Xavier, V L Santos, et al

Growth performance, carcass traits, meat chemical composition and blood serum metabolites of broiler chicken fed on diets containing flaxseed oil.

RCTn = 448

This study evaluated the effects of substituting soya bean oil with flaxseed oil in broiler chicken diets on performance, carcass traits, meat chemical composition, and blood serum metabolites. No significant differences were observed in growth performance, carcass traits, or blood serum profile, suggesting flaxseed oil can be an alternative to soya bean oil in broiler chicken diets.

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2009·The American journal of clinical nutrition·An Pan, Danxia Yu, Wendy Demark-Wahnefried, et al

Meta-analysis of the effects of flaxseed interventions on blood lipids.

Meta-analysisHeart Health

Meta-analysis of 28 studies assessing the effects of flaxseed and its derivatives on blood lipid profiles. Flaxseed interventions significantly reduced total and LDL cholesterol, particularly with whole flaxseed and lignan supplements, but not with flaxseed oil. Effects were more pronounced in females, especially postmenopausal women, and those with high initial cholesterol levels.

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2025·Endocrine regulations·Douglas E Barre, Kazimiera A Mizier-Barre, Odette Griscti

Thus far there are no statistically significant differences between various apolipoprotein E genotypes in the cluster of seven responsiveness to a flaxseed oil supplement in persons with type 2 diabetes.

RCTn = 32Inflammation -Heart Health -

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the effect of flaxseed oil supplementation on a cluster of seven measures in 32 patients with type 2 diabetes. The study found that only platelet aggregability decreased with flaxseed oil compared to placebo, with no significant effects on other measures such as inflammation or LDL oxidation. Apolipoprotein E genotypes did not influence the responsiveness to flaxseed oil.

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2022·Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP·Milanjeet Kaur Raizada, Digamber M Sable

Clinical Assessment of Efficacy of Omega 3 in Oral Submucous Fibrosis Patients - A Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 48

RCT of 48 patients with oral submucous fibrosis comparing omega 3 supplementation (flaxseed oil) to placebo alongside intralesional injections. Omega 3 group showed significant improvements in inter-incisal distance, tongue protrusion, cheek flexibility, and reduction in burning sensation compared to placebo.

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2022·International journal of food sciences and nutrition·Cíntia Tomaz Sant'Ana, Ariane Dias de Amorim, Ana Paula Gava, et al

Brown and golden flaxseed reduce intestinal permeability and endotoxemia, and improve the lipid profile in perimenopausal overweight women.

RCTn = 30Gut Health Heart Health

Clinical trial investigating the effects of brown and golden flaxseeds on lipid profile, oxidative stress, intestinal permeability, endotoxemia, and fasting glycaemia in perimenopausal overweight women. Flaxseed consumption, especially golden flaxseed, reduced intestinal permeability and improved the lipid profile, with no change in oxidative stress markers and glycaemia.

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2019·Complementary therapies in medicine·Nava Morshedzadeh, Shabnam Shahrokh, Hamid Asadzadeh Aghdaei, et al

Effects of flaxseed and flaxseed oil supplement on serum levels of inflammatory markers, metabolic parameters and severity of disease in patients with ulcerative colitis.

RCTn = 90Inflammation Gut Health Heart Health

Open-labeled RCT with 90 UC patients comparing grounded flaxseed and flaxseed oil to control over 12 weeks. Both flaxseed and flaxseed oil significantly reduced inflammatory markers, disease severity, blood pressure, and waist circumference, with no significant difference between the two except for TGF-β levels.

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2019·Phytotherapy research : PTR·Fariba Raygan, Mohsen Taghizadeh, Naghmeh Mirhosseini, et al

A comparison between the effects of flaxseed oil and fish oil supplementation on cardiovascular health in type 2 diabetic patients with coronary heart disease: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial.

RCTn = 90Heart Health Inflammation Nutrition

RCT comparing flaxseed oil and fish oil supplementation on cardiovascular risk parameters in diabetic patients with coronary heart disease. Both supplements significantly reduced insulin levels and increased total nitrite and total antioxidant capacity compared to placebo. Flaxseed oil also reduced high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, while fish oil increased glutathione levels.

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2019·Clinical nutrition ESPEN·Noureddin Soltanian, M. Janghorbani

Effect of flaxseed or psyllium vs. placebo on management of constipation, weight, glycemia, and lipids: A randomized trial in constipated patients with type 2 diabetes.

RCTn = 77Gut Health Nutrition Heart Health

Single-blinded RCT of 77 constipated patients with type 2 diabetes comparing 10g flaxseed or psyllium in cookies to placebo over 12 weeks. Flaxseed was superior to psyllium in improving constipation symptoms, weight, glycemic, and lipid control. Both flaxseed and psyllium significantly improved outcomes compared to placebo.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2018·Trials·Siavash Babajafari, Abdollah Hojhabrimanesh, Zahra Sohrabi, et al

Comparing isolated soy protein with flaxseed oil vs isolated soy protein with corn oil and wheat flour with corn oil consumption on muscle catabolism, liver function, blood lipid, and sugar in burn patients: a randomized clinical trial.

RCTn = 73Physical Performance Nutrition

RCT comparing isolated soy protein with flaxseed oil versus isolated soy protein with corn oil and wheat flour with corn oil in burn patients. ISP groups showed reduced muscle catabolism and increased body weight compared to the control group, with significant improvements in nitrogen retention and serum creatinine.

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2017·Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries·Siavash Babajafari, Masoumeh Akhlaghi, Seyed Mohammad Mazloomi, et al

The effect of isolated soy protein adjunctive with flaxseed oil on markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, acute phase proteins, and wound healing of burn patients; a randomized clinical trial.

RCTn = 73Inflammation

RCT of 73 burn patients comparing isolated soy protein (ISP) and flaxseed oil (FO) supplementation to control. ISP significantly reduced hs-CRP and ferritin levels, increased albumin and transferrin levels, and improved wound healing. Flaxseed oil did not show additional benefits over ISP.

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2017·Lipids·Ali Akbar Hashemzadeh, Nikoo Nasoohi, Fariba Raygan, et al

Flaxseed Oil Supplementation Improve Gene Expression Levels of PPAR-γ, LP(a), IL-1 and TNF-α in Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Coronary Heart Disease.

RCTn = 60Heart Health Inflammation

This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial studied the effects of flaxseed oil supplementation on gene expression in 60 diabetic patients with coronary heart disease. Flaxseed oil up-regulated PPAR-γ and down-regulated LP(a), IL-1, and TNF-α gene expression, indicating improved heart health and reduced inflammation.

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2017·Journal of clinical lipidology·Atefeh Akrami, Farzad Nikaein, Siavash Babajafari, et al

Comparison of the effects of flaxseed oil and sunflower seed oil consumption on serum glucose, lipid profile, blood pressure, and lipid peroxidation in patients with metabolic syndrome.

RCTn = 60Heart Health Inflammation Physique

RCT comparing the effects of flaxseed oil and sunflower seed oil on metabolic syndrome symptoms in 60 patients. Flaxseed oil significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, lipid peroxidation, and waist circumference, while both oils reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

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2016·Endocrine regulations·D E Barre, K A Mizier-Barre, O Griscti, et al

Flaxseed oil supplementation manipulates correlations between serum individual mol % free fatty acid levels and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetics. Insulin resistance and percent remaining pancreatic β-cell function are unaffected.

RCT

RCT investigating the effect of flaxseed oil supplementation on correlations between serum free fatty acid levels and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetics. Flaxseed oil altered correlations but had no significant impact on insulin resistance or pancreatic β-cell function.

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2015·Complementary therapies in medicine·Mojgan Mirghafourvand, Sakineh Mohammad-Alizadeh-Charandabi, Parivash Ahmadpour, et al

Effects of Vitex agnus and Flaxseed on cyclic mastalgia: A randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 159Womens Health

This randomized controlled trial assessed the efficacy of Vitex agnus and Flaxseed on cyclical mastalgia in 159 women. Both intervention groups showed significant improvement in breast pain compared to the control group during the first and second month after intervention.

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2014·Research in veterinary science·J M Martínez-Pérez, D Robles-Pérez, J Benavides, et al

Effect of dietary supplementation with flaxseed oil or vitamin E on sheep experimentally infected with Fasciola hepatica.

RCTImmunity

RCT studying the effects of flaxseed oil and vitamin E supplementation in sheep infected with Fasciola hepatica. The flaxseed oil group showed lower fluke numbers and size, higher white and red blood cell counts, and higher haematocrit values. Vitamin E supplementation reduced adult fluke burden and liver lipid oxidation.

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2011·Journal of the science of food and agriculture·Hintsa T Mateos, Paul A Lewandowski, Xiao Q Su

Effects of dietary fish oil replacement with flaxseed oil on tissue fatty acid composition and expression of desaturase and elongase genes.

RCTNutrition

The study evaluated the effects of replacing dietary fish oil with flaxseed oil in Jade Tiger hybrid abalone. It found that partial substitution with flaxseed oil improved the composition of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in abalone tissues and increased the expression of desaturase and elongase genes.

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2009·Journal of animal science·C Farmer, H V Petit

Effects of dietary supplementation with different forms of flax in late-gestation and lactation on fatty acid profiles in sows and their piglets.

RCTn = 60Nutrition

RCT studying the effects of flax supplementation in different forms (seed, meal, oil) on fatty acid profiles in sows and their piglets. Flaxseed and flaxseed oil improved n-3 fatty acid levels and decreased n-6/n-3 ratios in sows and piglets, unlike flaxseed meal.

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2009·Journal of animal science·C Farmer, A Giguère, M Lessard

Dietary supplementation with different forms of flax in late gestation and lactation: Effects on sow and litter performances, endocrinology, and immune response.

RCTn = 60Immunity Nutrition

RCT studying the effects of flax supplementation (seed, meal, oil) in late-pregnant and lactating sows on hormone concentrations, immune responses, and sow and litter performances. Flax supplementation improved milk protein content, piglet immune resistance, and postweaning growth, particularly with flaxseed meal.

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2009·European journal of clinical nutrition·A Patenaude, D Rodriguez-Leyva, A L Edel, et al

Bioavailability of alpha-linolenic acid from flaxseed diets as a function of the age of the subject.

RCTHeart Health

RCT investigating the bioavailability of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) from flaxseed diets in subjects aged 18-29 and 45-69 years over 4 weeks. Flaxseed oil increased plasma ALA and EPA in all subjects, while ground flaxseed increased plasma ALA significantly only in younger subjects. Younger subjects showed a decrease in triglyceride values, but no major changes in cholesterol levels or platelet aggregation were observed.

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2008·The American journal of clinical nutrition·Gwendolyn Barceló-Coblijn, Eric J Murphy, Rgia Othman, et al

Flaxseed oil and fish-oil capsule consumption alters human red blood cell n-3 fatty acid composition: a multiple-dosing trial comparing 2 sources of n-3 fatty acid.

RCTn = 62Heart Health

RCT comparing the effects of flax oil, fish oil, and sunflower oil on erythrocyte n-3 fatty acid composition in 62 firefighters over 12 weeks. Flax oil increased erythrocyte ALA, EPA, and docosapentaenoic acid content, demonstrating effective ALA conversion.

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2008·The British journal of nutrition·Silke De Spirt, Wilhelm Stahl, Hagen Tronnier, et al

Intervention with flaxseed and borage oil supplements modulates skin condition in women.

RCTSkin Hair Health

RCT studying the effects of flaxseed and borage oil supplementation on skin condition in women over 12 weeks. Both oils improved skin hydration, reduced skin reddening and blood flow, and decreased transepidermal water loss, roughness, and scaling. The placebo group showed no significant changes except for hydration.

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2007·European journal of clinical nutrition·G K Paschos, F Magkos, D B Panagiotakos, et al

Dietary supplementation with flaxseed oil lowers blood pressure in dyslipidaemic patients.

RCTn = 59Heart Health

Prospective, two-group, parallel-arm RCT examining the effect of 12-week dietary supplementation with flaxseed oil (rich in ALA) on blood pressure in middle-aged dyslipidaemic men. Flaxseed oil supplementation resulted in significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels compared to safflower oil.

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2006·Journal of dairy science·J A Bell, J M Griinari, J J Kennelly

Effect of safflower oil, flaxseed oil, monensin, and vitamin E on concentration of conjugated linoleic acid in bovine milk fat.

RCTn = 90

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate dietary strategies aimed at increasing the concentration of CLA in bovine milk fat. In Experiment 1, 28 Holstein cows received diets with monensin, safflower oil, or both, showing increased CLA levels in milk fat. In Experiment 2, 62 cows received diets with safflower oil, flaxseed oil, monensin, and vitamin E, with safflower oil and monensin combination being particularly effective at increasing CLA levels.

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2006·The Journal of nutrition·Charles R Harper, Megan C Edwards, Terry A Jacobson

Flaxseed oil supplementation does not affect plasma lipoprotein concentration or particle size in human subjects.

RCTn = 56Heart Health -

RCT of 56 participants comparing 3 g/d of ALA from flaxseed oil to olive oil placebo for 26 weeks. No significant changes in plasma HDL, LDL, or triglyceride concentrations between groups. ALA did not affect lipoprotein particle size or concentrations, suggesting no decrease in CVD risk.

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2006·The Journal of nutrition·Charles R Harper, Megan J Edwards, Andrew P DeFilippis, et al

Flaxseed oil increases the plasma concentrations of cardioprotective (n-3) fatty acids in humans.

RCTn = 56Heart Health

RCT of 56 participants, predominantly African-American with chronic illness, comparing 3 g ALA/d from flaxseed oil capsules to olive oil placebo. Plasma EPA levels increased by 60% and DPA levels by 25% in the flaxseed oil group, with no change in DHA levels. Demonstrates efficacy of ALA conversion to EPA and DPA.

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2005·Atherosclerosis·Paul Wilkinson, Clare Leach, Eric E Ah-Sing, et al

Influence of alpha-linolenic acid and fish-oil on markers of cardiovascular risk in subjects with an atherogenic lipoprotein phenotype.

RCTn = 57Heart Health

RCT examining the effects of an ALA-enriched diet versus fish-oil on cardiovascular risk markers in 57 men with an atherogenic lipoprotein phenotype. The ALA diet increased ALA and EPA in erythrocyte membranes, while fish-oil increased EPA and DHA. Both diets decreased total plasma cholesterol, but only fish-oil significantly reduced plasma TG and small, dense LDL.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2002·European journal of clinical nutrition·S Tarpila, A Aro, I Salminen, et al

The effect of flaxseed supplementation in processed foods on serum fatty acids and enterolactone.

RCTn = 80Nutrition

This double-blind, cross-over clinical nutrition study involved 80 volunteers to assess the effects of flaxseed supplementation on serum lipids, fatty acids, and plasma enterolactone. Flaxseed supplementation significantly increased serum alpha-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and doubled serum enterolactone concentration.

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2018·Iranian journal of kidney diseases·Maryam Mirfatahi, Hossein Imani, Hadi Tabibi, et al

Effects of Flaxseed Oil on Serum Bone Turnover Markers in Hemodialysis Patients: a Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 34Joint Bone Health

RCT investigating the effects of flaxseed oil on serum bone turnover markers in 34 hemodialysis patients. Flaxseed oil group received 6 g/d for 8 weeks, showing a significant 17% reduction in serum N-telopeptide concentration, indicating reduced bone resorption.

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2018·Theriogenology·P P Gokuldas, Sanjay K Singh, Madan K Tamuli, et al

Dietary supplementation of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid alters endometrial expression of genes involved in prostaglandin biosynthetic pathway in breeding sows (Sus scrofa).

RCTn = 16Womens Health

RCT studying the effect of dietary supplementation of omega-3 PUFA from flaxseed oil on endometrial gene expression in breeding sows. The study found altered expression of genes involved in the prostaglandin biosynthetic pathway, suggesting potential benefits for reproductive performance.

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2016·Journal of dairy science·Y Pi, S T Gao, L Ma, et al

Effectiveness of rubber seed oil and flaxseed oil to enhance the α-linolenic acid content in milk from dairy cows.

RCTn = 48Nutrition

RCT with 48 mid-lactation Holstein dairy cows comparing the effects of rubber seed oil and flaxseed oil on milk yield and composition. Both oils increased milk yield and the concentration of functional fatty acids (ALA, vaccenic acid, and CLA) in milk fat while decreasing saturated fatty acids.

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2016·Hemodialysis international. International Symposium on Home Hemodialysis·Hadi Tabibi, Maryam Mirfatahi, Mehdi Hedayati, et al

Effects of flaxseed oil on blood hepcidin and hematologic factors in hemodialysis patients.

RCTn = 38Nutrition

RCT of 38 hemodialysis patients comparing 6 g/d flaxseed oil to medium chain triglycerides oil for 8 weeks. Flaxseed oil significantly reduced serum hepcidin concentration and improved hematologic factors such as RBCs, blood hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCH, and MCHC.

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2016·International urology and nephrology·M Mirfatahi, H Tabibi, A Nasrollahi, et al

Effect of flaxseed oil on serum systemic and vascular inflammation markers and oxidative stress in hemodialysis patients: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 34Inflammation Heart Health

This randomized, double-blind clinical trial investigated the effects of flaxseed oil on inflammation and oxidative stress markers in 34 hemodialysis patients. The flaxseed oil group showed significant reductions in serum hs-CRP and sVCAM-1, markers of systemic and vascular inflammation, compared to the control group receiving MCT oil.

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2016·Iranian journal of kidney diseases·Maryam Mirfatahi, Hadi Tabibi, Alireza Nasrollahi, et al

Effects of Flaxseed Oil on Serum Lipids and Lipoproteins in Hemodialysis Patients: a Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 34Heart Health

RCT of 34 hemodialysis patients comparing 6 g/d flaxseed oil to medium chain triglycerides oil for 8 weeks. Flaxseed oil significantly reduced serum triglyceride concentration by up to 23%, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but had no effect on other lipid parameters.

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2015·Journal of animal physiology and animal nutrition·G G Ulfina, S P Kimothi, P S Oberoi, et al

Modulation of post-partum reproductive performance in dairy cows through supplementation of long- or short-chain fatty acids during transition period.

RCTn = 36

RCT with 36 cross-bred cows studying the effect of flaxseed and butyric acid supplementation on reproductive performance during the transition period. Flaxseed supplementation resulted in positive energy balance, enhanced uterine involution, and earlier post-partum heat and breeding compared to control and butyric acid groups.

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2015·Nutrition journal·Yuka Kawakami, Hisami Yamanaka-Okumura, Yuko Naniwa-Kuroki, et al

Flaxseed oil intake reduces serum small dense low-density lipoprotein concentrations in Japanese men: a randomized, double blind, crossover study.

RCTn = 15Heart Health

A randomized, double blind, crossover study with 15 Japanese men investigated the effects of 12-week supplementation with flaxseed oil, a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid, on cardiovascular risk factors. Flaxseed oil intake significantly reduced serum small dense low-density lipoprotein concentrations compared to corn oil.

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2014·Journal of lipid research·Peter J H Jones, Lin Lin, Leah G Gillingham, et al

Modulation of plasma N-acylethanolamine levels and physiological parameters by dietary fatty acid composition in humans.

RCTn = 36Physique

RCT with 36 hypercholesterolemic participants comparing diets enriched with high-oleic canola oil (HOCO) or HOCO blended with flaxseed oil (FXCO) to a Western diet (WD) over 28 days. Plasma oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and alpha-linolenoyl ethanolamide (ALEA) levels increased with HOCO and FXCO, respectively. Associations were found between plasma OEA levels and body fat, suggesting dietary lipid substrates may modulate fat mass through lipid-signaling mechanisms.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2013·Reproduction (Cambridge, England)·U Moallem, A Shafran, M Zachut, et al

Dietary α-linolenic acid from flaxseed oil improved folliculogenesis and IVF performance in dairy cows, similar to eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids from fish oil.

RCTn = 42

RCT in dairy cows comparing the effects of omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil (ALA) and fish oil on folliculogenesis and IVF performance. ALA from flaxseed oil improved folliculogenesis and IVF outcomes similarly to EPA and DHA from fish oil.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2013·Metabolism: clinical and experimental·Meropi D Kontogianni, Antonis Vlassopoulos, Alexandra Gatzieva, et al

Flaxseed oil does not affect inflammatory markers and lipid profile compared to olive oil, in young, healthy, normal weight adults.

RCTn = 37Inflammation -Heart Health -

This randomized, cross-over study compared the effects of flaxseed oil (FO) and olive oil (OO) on inflammatory markers and lipid profile in 37 young, healthy adults. No significant differences were observed between the two oils in terms of inflammatory markers or lipid profile, although FO led to reductions in total and LDL-cholesterol levels.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2012·Metabolism: clinical and experimental·Leah G Gillingham, Kimberley S Robinson, Peter J H Jones

Effect of high-oleic canola and flaxseed oils on energy expenditure and body composition in hypercholesterolemic subjects.

RCTn = 34Energy -Physique -

RCT comparing the effects of high-oleic canola oil (HOCO) and flaxseed oil (FXCO) diets versus a typical Western diet on energy expenditure, substrate utilization, and body composition in 34 hypercholesterolemic subjects. No significant differences were found in energy expenditure, substrate oxidation, or body composition between the diets.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2010·The British journal of nutrition·Leah G Gillingham, Jennifer A Gustafson, Song-Yee Han, et al

High-oleic rapeseed (canola) and flaxseed oils modulate serum lipids and inflammatory biomarkers in hypercholesterolaemic subjects.

RCTn = 36Heart Health Inflammation

RCT with 36 hypercholesterolaemic subjects comparing high-oleic rapeseed oil (HOCO) and flaxseed oil (FXCO) to a Western diet. FXCO reduced LDL-cholesterol by 15.1% and total cholesterol by 11%, while HOCO reduced LDL-cholesterol by 7.4% and total cholesterol by 3.5%. FXCO also decreased E-selectin concentration, indicating potential anti-inflammatory effects.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2010·Skin pharmacology and physiology·K Neukam, S De Spirt, W Stahl, et al

Supplementation of flaxseed oil diminishes skin sensitivity and improves skin barrier function and condition.

RCTn = 26Skin Hair Health

Randomized, double-blind 12-week intervention study with 26 female participants evaluating the effects of flaxseed oil and safflowerseed oil supplementation on skin sensitivity and condition. Flaxseed oil significantly decreased skin sensitivity, transepidermal water loss, skin roughness, and scaling, while increasing smoothness and hydration. Safflowerseed oil showed less pronounced improvements.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2009·Poultry science·D C Bongalhardo, S Leeson, M M Buhr

Dietary lipids differentially affect membranes from different areas of rooster sperm.

RCTn = 16

The study compared the effects of dietary flax seed, corn oil, and fish oil on rooster sperm membranes and semen characteristics. Flax seed and fish oil increased n-3 fatty acids in sperm, with flax seed showing intermediate effects between fish and corn oil. The study found that flax seed could be used as a substitute for fish oil in modifying sperm lipid content.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2008·Metabolism: clinical and experimental·Peter J H Jones, Stephanie Jew, Suhad AbuMweis

The effect of dietary oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids on fat oxidation and energy expenditure in healthy men.

RCTn = 15Energy

Randomized crossover study comparing the effects of olive oil, sunflower oil, and flaxseed oil on postprandial energy expenditure in 15 healthy men. Olive oil, rich in oleic acid, showed a significant increase in energy expenditure compared to flaxseed oil and a trend towards increased energy expenditure compared to sunflower oil. No significant effects on fat or carbohydrate oxidation were observed.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2007·Arquivos brasileiros de oftalmologia·Manuel Neuzimar Pinheiro, Procópio Miguel dos Santos, Regina Cândido Ribeiro dos Santos, et al

[Oral flaxseed oil (Linum usitatissimum) in the treatment for dry-eye Sjögren's syndrome patients].

RCTn = 38Inflammation

RCT evaluating oral flaxseed oil in 38 female patients with Sjögren's syndrome and keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Flaxseed oil at 1 or 2 g/day reduced ocular surface inflammation and improved symptoms compared to placebo over 180 days.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2007·European journal of nutrition·George K Paschos, Antonis Zampelas, Demosthenes B Panagiotakos, et al

Effects of flaxseed oil supplementation on plasma adiponectin levels in dyslipidemic men.

RCTn = 35

RCT of 35 non-diabetic, dyslipidemic men comparing 15 ml of flaxseed oil rich in ALA to safflower oil over 12 weeks. Plasma adiponectin levels did not change in the flaxseed oil group compared to the control group.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2006·European journal of nutrition·Ursula S Schwab, James C Callaway, Arja T Erkkilä, et al

Effects of hempseed and flaxseed oils on the profile of serum lipids, serum total and lipoprotein lipid concentrations and haemostatic factors.

RCTn = 14

Randomized, double-blind crossover study with 14 healthy volunteers comparing the effects of hempseed oil and flaxseed oil on serum lipid profiles. Hempseed oil resulted in higher proportions of linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid, while flaxseed oil resulted in higher proportions of alpha-linolenic acid. No significant differences were found in fasting serum total or lipoprotein lipids, plasma glucose, insulin, or hemostatic factors.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2005·American journal of veterinary research·Ralf S Mueller, Martin J Fettman, Kristi Richardson, et al

Plasma and skin concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids before and after supplementation with n-3 fatty acids in dogs with atopic dermatitis.

RCTn = 30Skin Hair Health -Inflammation -

RCT in 30 dogs with atopic dermatitis comparing supplementation with flaxseed oil, EPA-DHA, or placebo. Plasma concentrations of alpha-LLA and EPA increased with supplementation, but no significant changes were observed in skin concentrations or clinical scores. No correlation was found between clinical scores and fatty acid or eicosanoid concentrations.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2003·The American journal of clinical nutrition·Cindy A Francois, Sonja L Connor, Linda C Bolewicz, et al

Supplementing lactating women with flaxseed oil does not increase docosahexaenoic acid in their milk.

RCTn = 7Nutrition -

RCT involving 7 lactating women taking 20 g flaxseed oil daily for 4 weeks. The study found significant increases in ALA, EPA, and DPA in breast milk, plasma, and erythrocytes, but no significant changes in DHA content.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2002·Journal of veterinary internal medicine·Rodney A Hansen, Catherine J Savage, Karen Reidlinger, et al

Effects of dietary flaxseed oil supplementation on equine plasma fatty acid concentrations and whole blood platelet aggregation.

RCTn = 12

An 18-week feeding trial investigated the effects of flaxseed oil supplementation on plasma fatty acid concentrations and platelet aggregation in healthy horses. Flaxseed oil increased plasma levels of certain fatty acids but did not alter platelet aggregation, possibly due to the high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio or limited biological effect in healthy subjects.

PubMedRead on PubMed
1995·The American journal of clinical nutrition·E Mantzioris, M J James, R A Gibson, et al

Differences exist in the relationships between dietary linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids and their respective long-chain metabolites.

RCTHeart Health Inflammation

A dietary intervention study with healthy human volunteers examined the relationships between dietary alpha-linolenic acid (alpha-LA) and cellular eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) concentrations. The study found linear relationships between dietary alpha-LA and EPA in plasma fractions and cellular phospholipids, indicating that increasing dietary alpha-LA will elevate tissue EPA concentrations predictably.

PubMedRead on PubMed
1993·The British journal of nutrition·S C Cunnane, S Ganguli, C Menard, et al

High alpha-linolenic acid flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum): some nutritional properties in humans.

RCTNutrition Heart Health Inflammation

Healthy female volunteers consumed 50 g ground, raw flaxseed daily for 4 weeks. Flaxseed increased alpha-linolenic acid and long-chain n-3 fatty acids in plasma and erythrocyte lipids, lowered serum total cholesterol by 9% and LDL-cholesterol by 18%, and decreased postprandial blood glucose responses by 27%.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2025·DEVELOPMENTAL MEDICO-LIFE-SCIENCES·Imsha Maryam, Jaweria Abid

Nanoencapsulation of Omega-3 Fatty Acids from Flaxseed Oil for Fortification in Dairy Products: Stability and Bioavailability Assessment

In vitron = 80Nutrition

The study evaluated the impact of nanoencapsulation on the stability, sensory quality, and bioavailability of flaxseed oil omega-3 fatty acids in dairy products. Nanoencapsulation improved oxidative stability, sensory acceptability, and bioaccessibility of ALA compared to free oil.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2019·Insect Science·D. Oonincx, Sophie Laurent, M. Veenenbos, et al

Dietary enrichment of edible insects with omega 3 fatty acids

StudyNutrition

The study investigated the effect of flaxseed oil provision on the fatty acid composition of edible insects, specifically house crickets, lesser mealworms, and black soldier flies. Flaxseed oil increased the alpha-linolenic acid content and improved the n-6/n-3 ratios, enhancing the nutritional quality of the insects.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
1995·Rheumatology international·D C Nordström, V E Honkanen, Y Nasu, et al

Alpha-linolenic acid in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized study: flaxseed vs. safflower seed.

RCTn = 22Inflammation -

A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study of alpha-linolenic acid (alpha-LNA) supplementation in 22 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. After 3 months, the treatment group showed increased bleeding time, but no significant clinical or laboratory improvements were observed.

PubMedRead on PubMed
1995·European journal of clinical nutrition·M A Allman, M M Pena, D Pang

Supplementation with flaxseed oil versus sunflowerseed oil in healthy young men consuming a low fat diet: effects on platelet composition and function.

RCTn = 11Heart Health

Prospective study comparing the effects of flaxseed oil and sunflowerseed oil supplementation on platelet composition and function in 11 healthy young males. Flaxseed oil increased platelet eicosapentaenoic acid levels and decreased platelet aggregation, suggesting protective cardiovascular effects.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2023·European Journal of Medical Research·Somaia A Al-Madhagy, Naglaa S. Ashmawy, Ayat-Allah Mamdouh, et al

A comprehensive review of the health benefits of flaxseed oil in relation to its chemical composition and comparison with other omega-3-rich oils

ReviewHeart Health Inflammation Immunity Brain Health Joint Bone Health

This comprehensive review focuses on flaxseed oil, highlighting its chemical composition and biological effects. It discusses the potential health benefits of flaxseed oil, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, antiulcer, anti-osteoporotic, cardioprotective, metabolic, and neuroprotective effects, in comparison to other PUFA-rich oils.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2021·Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·K. Lane, Megan Wilson, Teuta G Hellon, et al

Bioavailability and conversion of plant based sources of omega-3 fatty acids – a scoping review to update supplementation options for vegetarians and vegans

Review

This scoping review examines the bioavailability and conversion of plant-based omega-3 oils, focusing on their effects on the Omega-3 index (O3I) in vegetarians and vegans. High dose flaxseed or echium seed oil supplements did not increase O3I, while microalgal oil supplementation increased O3I levels in all studies reviewed.

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2021·Trends in Food Science & Technology·Jing Yang, Chaoting Wen, Y. Duan, et al

The composition, extraction, analysis, bioactivities, bioavailability and applications in food system of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) oil: A review

ReviewNutrition

This narrative review summarizes research on flaxseed oil, focusing on its composition, extraction, bioactivities, bioavailability, and applications in food systems. It highlights the low conversion efficiency of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) to EPA and DHA in the human body and discusses methods to improve its stability and bioavailability.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar