Oct 17, 2017 #FlaxFAQ: Is flaxseed a source of omega-3 fats?

Source: HealthyFlax.org   |  Category: FAQ

Flaxseed is a Source of Plant Based Omega-3 Fats:

Omega-3s are a type of fat that we need to eat to stay healthy. They are sometimes called essential fats as our bodies need them but can’t make them so we have to get them from a food source. Research suggests that higher intake of omega-3 fats are associated with reductions in cardiovascular disease. Omega-3 fats are found in cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring; nuts especially walnuts, pecans and almonds; seeds especially flaxseed and chia; as well as some vegetable oils including flaxseed, walnut, canola and soybean oils. The Institute for Medicine recommends that men consume 1.6 grams, women 1.1 grams and children depending on age consumer between 0.5 and 1.2 grams per day. Two Tbsp (30 mL) of ground flaxseed provides 3.5 g of omega 3, more than twice the daily recommendation. That’s a good thing!