Omega-3 an important component of every cell in the human body

Cold-pressed linseed(flax) oil: an excellent source of essential omega-3

It’s very hard to get enough omega-3 in our diet in the UK, in addition we get too much omega-6; cold-pressed linseed (flax) oil provides omega-3 and balances other fats and oils in the diet. Omega-3 is an essential fat which we can’t make in our bodies, we have to get it from our food. It is essential for building healthy bodies, it makes up approximately 25% of cell membranes and more in the brain, eyes and reproductive organs, ova and sperm. Omega-3 is important for fertility; it is essential before conception, during development in the womb and while breast feeding.

Fertility: healthy ovulation and womb

Male and female human reproductive systems also need higher levels of omega-3 for health. For female fertility women need omega-3 for healthy ovulation and a healthy womb to support and nourish a growing baby.

Pregnancy, developing Embryo and Child

Omega-3 is an essential fat and especially important for the growing child from the time it is conceived (and before conception) and up to the age of about 7 years.  Without sufficient omega-3 children are more likely to develop allergies, asthma, ADHD and auto-immune conditions. During the period of rapid development from conception to 7 years are the times the brain is developing and it is essential that a child has enough omega-3 to reach its genetic potential.

Cold-pressed linseed oil adds ALA the parent omega-3, which is essential in its own right and converted into EPA and DHA in the body. Eating cold-pressed linseed oil for omega-3 supports the health of pregnant women and can prevent the developing baby drawing omega-3 from the mother.  ALA is also a component of breast milk, adding linseed oil to the diet means there is plenty for mum recovering from pregnancy and also the growing baby.

Childhood and teens

Children’s need for omega-3 continues through childhood and can  support their health when they are going through the stress of teenage years and hormone development. Omega-3 and linseed oil are also known to support the immune system and healthy skin which can be of benefit to acne-prone skins.

Ground linseed(flax)

Adults

Ground linseed (flaxseed) is great for the digestion, it is gentle and naturally regulating. Lots of adults have problems with digestion; pregnancy can cause constipation and discomfort. Linseed can help with healthy gut flora, comfort and regularity.

Ground linseed (but not the oil) is a very mild phyto-oestrogen, which has raised concerns for developing foetuses. However linseed is a commonly eaten food in many parts of the world and there is no evidence for any concerns nor from animal research. Many people, including countries with a long tradition of eating linseed, suggest being a little cautious and suggest pregnant women should limit eating linseed to just 5 days out of every 7.

Children

Children can sometimes suffer from slow transit and stubborn constipation. A little ground linseed added into food, added into breakfast cereals at the rate of 1 part in 3 or 4 can help.  Flax Farm porridge, muesli or Flaxjacks® are also great natural foods to keep children’s stools soft, comfortable and regular.