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Flax seed oil (oil cold pressed from the seeds of the flax plant) is now being marketed as a dietary supplement with many claimed benefits. What are these benefits, and where can flax seed oil be obtained? At the bottom of this article we will show you where you can get flax seed oil online, but first, why is flax seed oil meant to be good for you?

As it includes omega-3 fatty acids, flax seed oil is meant to give all the benefits associated with those, including a reduction in the risk of heart disease. As most dietary supplements which contain omega-3 are actually derived from fish, flax seed oil offers a source which is suitable for vegetarians or those concerned about unsustainable fishing practices, or the heavy metal content of fish from polluted water. Other known and published benefits from scientific studies of omega-3 include improved memory and cognitive function and anti-inflammatory (anti-arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease) properties. There is also some evidence that it can lower blood pressure in people suffering from hypertension.

The omega-3 family of fatty acids includes alpha-linolenic acid (known as ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (known as EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (known as DHA). The body needs all three of these. ALA is seen as the most important, because the human body can synthesise the others from it.

More than half of flax seed oil by weight consists of EPA, so one of the benefits of flax seed oil is that your body's requirement of omega-3 is well covered. (Other good non-fish sources of omega-3 include kiwifruit, cowberry or lingonberry, assai palm fruit, and purslane.)

One of the main issues with the typical Western diet which has recently been identified by nutritionists is the imbalance between the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. (Omega-6 sources include cereals, vegetable oils, eggs and poultry.) While the ideal balance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 in the diet is about 4:1, a typical Western diet would be about 20:1. This imbalance is believed to be one of the causes of the increase in inflammatory diseases, in recent decades, despite generally better medical care. Omega-3 taken via flax seed oil may help to restore the balance.

In addition, flax seed oil also contains substances called lignans, which may help to prevent cancer, though research here is not conclusive.

After purchasing flax seed oil, you should be aware that has a short shelf life if not refrigerated, and it should be protected from light. It is available in liquid form or as capsules.

Now take action! Where can flax seed oil be purchased online, you want to know? Check our flax seed oil page for the most reliable suppliers with all types of flax seed oil products.

Barbara Eastcairn writes about health and alternative health issues of all kinds.