Fats are an essential component of a healthy diet. The fats that you get from food, known as fatty acids, provide your body with plenty of energy. They also help you absorb or store fat-soluble nutrients, such as vitamins A, D, E and K. [1][2]
Fats are also involved in the production of reproductive hormones, so your diet, particularly your intake of fats, does affect your fertility. In women, an increased intake of healthy fats has been shown to support healthy ovulation and pregnancy outcomes, while low-fat diets have been found to decrease testosterone levels in men. [3][4]
Although your body can synthesize fatty acids, there are some that you can only get by consuming plant and animal fats. Plant fats, which are also available in the form of pure edible oils, are considered much healthier than animal fats for a variety of reasons.
Animal fat vs plant fat
According to studies, animal fat typically contains about 40 to 60% saturated fats, with long-chain fatty acids like palmitic and stearic acids making up the bulk of these dietary fats. [5][6] Saturated fats are often solid at room temperature and are considered unhealthy when consumed excessively. Palmitic acid, in particular, has been linked to a greater risk of heart disease. [7]
In contrast, plant fats derived from fruits, seeds, nuts and legumes contain less saturated fats and more healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fatty acids like the omega-9, oleic acid, have been shown to support healthy blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range. [8][9]
Similarly, polyunsaturated fats like the omega-3, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and the omega-6, linoleic acid (LA), have been known to support a healthy heart. [10]
Meanwhile, clinical studies have shown that ALA, a plant-exclusive omega-3, can help you maintain healthy blood pressure levels that are already within the normal range. [11] ALA has also been found to support healthy brain functions via its effect on BDNF, a protein essential for learning and memory. [12][13]
The nutritional advantage of plant fats over animal fats lies in their abundance of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids. These healthy fats are called “unsaturated” because they have one or more double bonds linking two carbon atoms in their structure. The presence of double bonds means that these molecules don’t contain the greatest possible number of hydrogen atoms for the number of carbons they possess. [14]
Thanks to this, unsaturated fatty acids are much easier for your body to metabolize. In fact, human metabolism favors unsaturated fatty acids with two or more double bonds, like ALA and LA. But because your body can’t synthesize fatty acids like them, you need to include plant fats in your diet in order to get adequate amounts of these essential nutrients. [15]
It is important to note that animal fats are not completely devoid of unsaturated fatty acids – they just contain less of them and more of the saturated fats. But some animal fats, like those from fatty fish, also contain high amounts of beneficial fatty acids.
Fish oil is considered a good source of two other omega-3s, namely, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Like ALA, both are known to offer considerable heart and brain benefits. [16] Although your body can naturally produce these fats from ALA, the conversion efficiency is said to be low, making it difficult for vegans and vegetarians to obtain these nutrients. [17]
But a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming high amounts of plant-exclusive ALA may be enough for vegans and vegetarians to meet their omega-3 requirements. After comparing the DHA and EPA levels of fish eaters and non-fish eaters, the researchers were surprised to find that the difference was considerably small. They believe that the bodies of non-fish eaters naturally adjust to their diet and compensate by ramping up their conversion of ALA into DHA and EPA. [18]
So if you’re looking to cut back on saturated fats (animal fat), you can easily switch to a healthier diet by replacing them with plant oils like flaxseed oil. Versatile and full of health benefits, this plant oil with a mild, nutty flavor is one of the richest sources of omega-fatty acids, so it’s also great for vegans and vegetarians.
Why choose Organic Flaxseed Oil?
As its name suggests, flaxseed oil is derived from the seeds of the Linum usitatissimum plant, an ancient crop commonly known as flax or linseed. Historical records place the beginning of the cultivation of flax at around 9000 to 8000 BC. A useful crop also known for its fiber, flax is now grown in 50 countries around the world and celebrated for the incredible benefits its seed oil has to offer. [19]
What makes flaxseed oil an excellent addition to a vegan or vegetarian diet is its high omega-fatty acid content. Organic flaxseed oil is a great source of ALA, as well as LA and oleic acid. In fact, it provides more ALA than other seed oils like hempseed oil and chia seed oil. [20] This makes it a suitable alternative for non-fish eaters who need plenty of ALA for conversion to DHA and EPA.
On top of being a rich source, flaxseed oil is also a reliable source of ALA. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, the ALA that you can get from flaxseed oil is more bioavailable than the ALA in whole or ground flaxseed. This means that flaxseed oil can deliver more ALA for your body to utilize than whole or milled flaxseed. [21]
Here are some more amazing benefits of organic flaxseed oil:
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Supports a healthy cardiovascular system – According to a study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, the ALA in flaxseed oil can help keep your heart in top shape by supporting healthy blood pressure and blood triglyceride levels that are already within the normal range. [22]
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Supports a healthy digestive system – According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, the beneficial fats in flaxseed oil can help support a healthy and balanced gut microflora, which is important for keeping your digestive system running smoothly. [23] Good gut microbes play a key role in healthy digestion, especially in the conversion of carbohydrates into cellular energy. [24]
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Supports a healthy immune system – According to a study published in the journal Lipids, one of the best ways to support optimal immune function is to consume more omega-3s than omega-6s. [25] Fortunately, flaxseed oil contains more ALA than LA, so it’s the perfect food for supporting a healthy and robust immune system.
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Supports strong, healthy bones – According to a study published in the International Journal of Food Safety, Nutrition and Public Health, the omega-3s in flaxseed oil can support normal bone matrix formation and mineralization, so supplementing with this superfood can help you maintain strong and healthy bones. [26]
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Supports healthy joints and tendons – According to a study published in journal Pharmacological Research, the omega-3s and omega-6s in flaxseed oil can protect against oxidative stress, which can cause joint problems by damaging cartilage. [27][28] Oxidative stress has also been linked to the degeneration of tendons. [29]
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Supports good eyesight – According to a study published in the journal Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, the ALA in flaxseed oil can support optimal cornea health. [30] This is important as your corneas not only protect your eyes from external threats, but they also play a crucial role in healthy vision. [31]
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Supports healthy, glowing skin – According to experts, flaxseed oil has beneficial properties that can help soothe, smooth and hydrate your skin. [32] The omega-fatty acids in flaxseed oil are also involved in the production of your skin’s natural oil barrier, which helps keep your skin moisturized.
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Supports healthy hair – According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the omega-3s and omega-6s in flaxseed oil can support the growth of strong, healthy hair. [33] Flaxseed oil also contains vitamin E, a potent natural antioxidant that can protect hair follicles from oxidative damage, giving hair a strong base from which to grow. [34]
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Supports sensible weight management plans – According to research, the healthy fats in flaxseed oil can help naturally curb your appetite by delaying gastric emptying. [35] Because this makes you feel full for longer, you can easily avoid unhealthy snacking between meals. When combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, flaxseed oil supplementation can support your reasonable weight management goals.
- Naturally uplifts mood – Consuming flaxseed oil can naturally uplift your mood, thanks to the ability of omega-3s to travel through the membranes of your brain cells. Doing so allows these healthy fats to interact with brain chemicals like serotonin, which helps stabilize mood and regulates feelings of happiness and well-being. [36]
How to incorporate Organic Flaxseed Oil into your daily routine
Flaxseed oil is one of the most versatile plant oils that you can add to your pantry. Although not suitable for cooking due to its low smoke point, flaxseed oil is easy to add to drinks and recipes. For example, you can use flaxseed oil instead of olive oil for your salad dressings or when making healthy sauces and dips. [37]
You can also add flaxseed oil to your favorite shakes and smoothies to give them an extra boost of flavor and omega-fatty acids. Here’s a nutritious, heart-healthy fruit smoothie recipe that includes flaxseed oil: [38]
Ingredients
½ Fresh banana
2 ice cubes
1 cup fruit juice (e.g., pineapple, apple or grape)
1 Tablespoon yogurt
1 Tablespoon flaxseed oil
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together in a blender.
- Add fresh or frozen berries or other fruits of your choice. You can also add protein powder if you need a protein boost.
Outside the kitchen, you can use flaxseed oil for skin care and hair care. Thanks to its abundance of omega-fats, flaxseed oil makes a great natural moisturizer for your face and body. The beneficial properties of omega-fatty acids can also help soothe irritated skin. [39]
Flaxseed oil can also support the growth of strong, shiny hair when used as a hair mask. To enjoy its hair benefits, pour a small amount of flaxseed oil into your hands and massage directly into your hair. Leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing. Do this before shampooing. [40]
Where to get certified Organic, lab-verified Virgin Flaxseed Oil
Omega-fatty acids are important nutrients for maintaining optimal health. You can’t do without these healthy fats because they’re involved in many cellular functions. Fortunately, it is easy to meet your daily omega-fatty acid requirements with the help of plant oils like organic flaxseed oil.
For people looking for clean, unadulterated organic flaxseed oil to incorporate into their diets, the Health Ranger Store is offering Groovy Bee Organic Virgin Flaxseed Oil. Cold-pressed from the dried seeds of the Linum usitatissimum plant, this concentrated plant oil can deliver high amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, especially the essential fats, ALA and LA.
A reliable source of bioavailable omega-fatty acids, Groovy Bee Organic Virgin Flaxseed Oil can help you support the healthy functions of many vital organs, such as your heart, eyes, bones, joints, skin, hair and immune and digestive systems. This premium flaxseed oil is also food-grade and lab verified for cleanliness and purity.
Groovy Bee Organic Virgin Flaxseed Oil is vegan, non-China, non-GMO and certified Kosher and organic. It contains no gluten, preservatives, fillers or any chemical additives. And just like every product offered by the Health Ranger Store, this high-quality virgin flaxseed oil is thoroughly lab tested for glyphosate, heavy metals and microbiology.
Boost your intake of essential fatty acids and maintain optimal health by incorporating clean, omega-rich organic flaxseed oil into your daily routine!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose any diseases.
References
[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fat/art-20045550
[2] https://www.nigms.nih.gov/education/Inside-Life-Science/Pages/what-do-fats-do-in-the-body.aspx
[3] https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/103/3/868/4629870
[4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0960076021000716?via%3Dihub
[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/plant-fats-and-oils
[6] https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-011-4018-8_3
[8] https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.0807500105
[9] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fsn3.1644
[11] https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/alpha-linolenic-acid
[12] https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-015-0012-5
[13] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4697050/
[14] https://www.britannica.com/science/unsaturated-fat
[15] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/plant-fats
[16] https://academic.oup.com/advances/article/3/1/1/4557081?login=false
[17] https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/other-nutrients/essential-fatty-acids
[18] https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/92/5/1040/4597496?login=false
[19] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/linum-usitatissimum
[20] https://www.myfooddata.com/articles/foods-high-in-ALA.php
[21] https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07315724.2008.10719693
[22] https://www.onlinecjc.ca/article/S0828-282X(10)70455-4/pdf
[23] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-10382-2
[24] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gut-bacteria-and-weight
[25] https://aocs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1007/s11745-003-1067-z
[26] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091123114638.htm
[27] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1043661808000923?via%3Dihub
[28] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3143971/
[29] https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/7/3571
[30] https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2168117
[31] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8586-corneal-disease
[32] https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/essential-fatty-acids
[33] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.12127
[34] https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/vitamin-e-for-hair
[35] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK53550/
[36] https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-serotonin-425327
[37] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/flaxseed-oil-benefits
[38] https://health.bastyr.edu/recipes/flax-seed-oil-fruit-smoothie\
[39] https://www.vogue.in/content/flaxseed-oil-benefits-for-skin-hair-diet-for-vegetarian
[40] https://www.healthline.com/health/flaxseed-for-hair#how-to-use