|
|
|
|
|
Back to List of Patient Handouts Print Friendly Version
Flaxseed Oil Flaxseed oil contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), while fish oil contains eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3 EFA’s may help prevent blood clotting. Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications- Inflammation - Skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema, acne and dermatitis) - Allergies - Heart disease - Hypertension - Premature aging - Autoimmune disorders - Ulcerative colitis (connection to vitamin D deficiency) - Neonatal development - Arthritis - Immune impairment - Alzheimers’s disease - Dementia - PMS - Menopause - Fibrocystic breast disease Clinical Applications/ResearchEssential Fatty Acids Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are important in the diet because EFA’s are a main component of phospholipids, the main constituent of cell membranes. Phospholipids help determine the fluidity and integrity of the cell membranes, and the type of fat ingested will play a major role in determining the health of the cell membranes. Saturated fats (i.e. butter or lard), trans-fatty acids (i.e. margarine or deep fried foods), or excess arachidonic acid (i.e. processed meats) all decrease cell membrane fluidity and function, while “good” essential fatty acids (i.e. fish oils or flax oil) enhance cell membrane fluidity and function. Essential fatty acids also play an important role in inflammation, hormone synthesis, nerve transmission and many other bodily functions. There are many signs and symptoms associated with EFA deficiency. These include dry skin and hair, cracked nails, fatigue, lack of endurance, dry mucous membranes, depression, constipation, digestive complaints, immune deficiency, aching joints, forgetfulness, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and angina. Allergy problems usually respond well to EFA’s. Flaxseed OilFlaxseeds are high in both omega-3 fatty acids and lignans. Lignans are special compounds, which have shown some promise in relieving hot flashes, and contain antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer properties. The gut flora converts the plant lignans into enterolactone and enterodiol, two compounds shown to have protective effects against breast cancer. Lignans bind to estrogen-receptor sites, preventing the cancer-promoting effects of estrogen on breast tissue. Note: Flaxseed oil must be converted from alpha-linolenic acid and must be elongated to EPA and DHA using the delta-6 desaturase enzyme. This enzyme needs zinc, B6 and magnesium to function effectively. This enzyme is also inhibited by trans-fatty acids, saturated fats and alcohol. Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.
Copyright: Copyright
HealthQuest, Inc. All rights reserved. Information used with permission from the
HealthQuest Nutritional Database Version 4.0
|
 |
|
About Us
| Demo the Database |
Patient Handouts |
Links |
