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A 41-year-old member asked:

Can you tell me is flaxseed oil good or bad for you?

1 doctor answer1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Randy Baker
Holistic Medicine 42 years experience
Good for most but...: Flaxseed oil is an excellent source of essential omega 3 ; 6 fatty acids. It likely reduces inflammation ; helps prevent heart disease ; cancer. However, some people have difficulty converting the omega 3 ala into epa ; dha (found in fish oil). It might harm those with diabetes, schizophrenia, macular degeneration ; prostate cancer. See http://umm.Edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/flaxseed-oil.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Randy Baker
Dr. Randy Baker commented
Holistic Medicine 42 years experience
Provided original answer
The role of flax oil in increasing or decreasing risk of prostate cancer is particularly controversial but it probably reduces risk- see http://nutritionfacts.org/questions/flax-seeds-and-prostate-cancer-risk/ & http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/expert-answers/flaxseed/faq-20058328
Mar 17, 2014

Similar questions

A 49-year-old member asked:

I was wondering is flaxseed oil good or bad for you?

1 doctor answer3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Ed Friedlander
Pathology 46 years experience
No magic: This has been promoted as a 'superfood' which is simply made up. Food choices have much less impact on your overall health than does staying physically fit, eating a sensible and balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and illegal drugs, using alcohol wisely if at all, and learning good living skills and working hard. You're right to care about your health, but the key's not on the dinner plate.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Aug 24, 2019

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