MICROgenics^® 1500mg Organic Flaxseed

Flaxseed oil contains two types of essential fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) and linoleic acid (omega-6). These are termed essential because they are not produced in the body and must be obtained through the diet. Flaxseed oil is the most concentrated plant source of Omega-3 identified to date which is often deficient in the typical western diet.¹ The body can convert Alpha-linolenic acid to EPA, an Omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil², so flaxseed oil may be a good vegetarian alternative to fish oil. Flaxseed oil also contains the non-essential (as it can be synthesised in the body) but still important oleic acid (Omega-9).

Skin and cell membranes

• Alpha-linolenic acid (Omega 3) and linoleic acid (omega 6) are required for the structural integrity of all cell membranes3
• Deficiency of Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids can lead to dryness, scaling and redness of the skin4 which is associated with minor skin conditions such as eczema.
• Deficiency of Omega-3 can also result in dry, brittle hair and poor wound healing.⁴

Inflammation and arthritis

• Arthritis and other inflammatory disorders involve the synthesis and production of inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
• Alpha-linolenic acid is a precursor to the Omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which are converted to anti-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes in the body⁵

Cardiovascular health

• A large body of scientific research suggests that higher dietary omega-3 fatty acid intakes are associated with lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.⁶
• Flaxseed oil helps to maintain blood circulation.⁷

References

1. Braun,L Cohen,M; Herbs and Natural Supplements- An evidence-based guide; Sydney; Elsevier; 2007
2. Mantzioris, E., M. J. James, et al;"Dietary substitution with an alpha-linolenic acid-rich vegetable oil increases eicosapentaenoic acid concentrations in tissues." Am J Clin Nutr 1994; 59(6): 1304-9.
3. Mann J, Truswell AS (eds); Essentials of human nutrition; Oxford University Press Inc; New York; 1998; pp.44-50
4. Oseiki H; The Nutrient Bible; Bioconcepts Publishing; QLD; 2002
5. Jellin JM (ed); Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database; accessed 26/07/2005 (http://www.naturaldatabase.com/)
6. Linus Pauling Institute; accessed 07/09/10 (http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/ omega 3)
7. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et al.; PDR for Herbal Medicines. 3rd Edition.; Thomson PDR; New Jersey; 2004; pp.328 – 332