by Sandra Piddock

Created on: September 02, 2010

While too much fat is bad for health, everyone needs a certain amount of fat in their diet. All fats are not created equal, however, and some fats and oils are more beneficial for health than others. Flaxseed oil falls into this category, so it makes sense to include it in a healthy diet. Here are just some of the health benefits of flaxseed oil.

Good for the heart

Flaxseed oil is the richest dietary source of alpha-lineolic acid (ALA). This is one of the Omega 3 essential fatty acids, and studies suggest it is good for heart health. Flaxseed oil helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as offering protection against angina. Recent research indicates that flaxseed oil may prevent the occurrence of a second heart attack.

Good for lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and gout

Flaxseed oil has anti-inflammatory properties, due to its high Omega 3 content. It's therefore uselful in reducing the inflammation of lupus, particularly in the joints, kidneys and skin. Blood cholesterol is often higher in lupus patients, and flaxseed oil can help lower it to more healthy levels.

Where gout is concerned, flaxseed oil alleviates the symptoms of swelling and joint pain, making life much more comfortable for the sufferer.

Cancer fighting

The lignans present in flax seeds have antioxidant properties and may protect against some forms of cancer, including breast, colon, prostate and skin cancers. These lignans inhibit tumour cell division and also help to kill off tumour cells.

Good for premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

A teaspoon of flaxseed oil, taken three times a day for a month, can give lasting relief from the symptoms of PMS.

Good for the skin, hair and nails

Skin problems such as acne, eczema, rosacea and psoriasis can arise from a deficiency of Omega 3 in the diet. Flaxseed oil is a rich source of Omega 3, as well as having anti-inflammatory properties, so it's good news for your skin. The Omega 3 in flaxseed oil also ensures healthy hair and nails, so it's a beauty treatment from within.

Good for the digestion

Flaxseed oil is a gentle natural laxative. The oil also acts as an antacid, and its anti-inflammatory function soothes stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The lignans in flaxseed oils are anti-viral and anti-bacterial, which is good news for digestive health. Flax seeds contain around 100 times more lignans than wheat bran, which is the next richest source.

Given the many health benefits of flaxseed oil, shouldn't you include it in your diet?

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