What is the recommended dosage for Flaxseed Oil?

General: 1-2 tablespoons oil/day (7-14g ALA); Capsules: 1,000-2,000 mg/day

What are the side effects of Flaxseed Oil?

Potential side effects include: Mild gastrointestinal discomfort (bloating, gas), Diarrhea at high doses, Potential interaction with blood-thinning medications.

What is flaxseed oil and how may it support heart health?

Flaxseed oil is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid. The body can convert ALA to EPA and DHA, though conversion rates are low (5–15%). Some clinical studies suggest flaxseed oil may modestly reduce blood pressure and improve endothelial function. Ground flaxseed also provides lignans and fiber.

What dosage of flaxseed oil has been studied for cardiovascular benefits?

Clinical trials have used 1–4 tablespoons (15–60 mL) of flaxseed oil per day, or 2–4 grams of ALA. Ground flaxseed studies typically used 30–40 grams daily. Studies lasted 4–24 weeks. The FlaxPAD trial demonstrated blood pressure reductions with 30g ground flaxseed daily.

What are the potential side effects of flaxseed oil?

Common side effects include bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Flaxseed oil is susceptible to oxidation and should be refrigerated; rancid oil may be harmful. Ground flaxseed may slow absorption of oral medications. Individuals on blood thinners should discuss flaxseed with their healthcare provider due to potential antiplatelet effects.

Flaxseed Oil

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Also known as: Linseed Oil, ALA, Alpha-Linolenic Acid, Flax Oil

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About

Flaxseed oil is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 that is partially converted to EPA (5-10%) and DHA (<5%). A 2015 meta-analysis of 11 RCTs found flaxseed supplementation significantly reduced both systolic (-2.85 mmHg) and diastolic (-2.39 mmHg) blood pressure, with greater effects in trials lasting >12 weeks.

How It Works

Rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 partially converted to EPA (5-10%) and DHA (<5%); lignans in ground flaxseed provide antioxidant and phytoestrogenic effects; ALA competes with omega-6 for COX/LOX enzymes reducing pro-inflammatory eicosanoid production; soluble fiber component supports healthy cholesterol metabolism.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)	B	11	700	View →
Atherosclerosis	D	2	150	View →

Side Effects

Mild gastrointestinal discomfort (bloating, gas)
Diarrhea at high doses
Potential interaction with blood-thinning medications

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Anticoagulants (mild additive antiplatelet effect)
Blood pressure medications (additive hypotensive effect)
May reduce absorption of oral medications if taken concurrently (fiber content)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Krill Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA) Omega-7 (Palmitoleic Acid)

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 1-2 tablespoons oil/day (7-14g ALA); Capsules: 1,000-2,000 mg/day
Forms: liquid oil softgel capsule ground seed
Natural Sources: Flaxseeds (ground or oil), Chia seeds, Hemp seeds, Walnuts
Upper Limit: Not formally established; up to 40g/day ground flaxseed used in clinical trials
Best Time: With meals; refrigerate oil to prevent oxidation

Evidence Summary

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) B

Atherosclerosis D

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.