Can I use EFA oils during pregnancy?

The Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids found in flax oil and fish oil are very important during pregnancy. We do not recommend using these oils during the last trimester, however, as EFAs tend to thin the blood, and some women could be at risk from too much blood thinning which could lead to premature delivery or excessive hemorrhaging during delivery. Please consult with your health care practitioner whenever embarking upon a new health care regime or when significantly altering or supplementing your diet, especially when pregnant.

 

Does flax oil pose a prostate cancer risk? Or a benefit?

There is much debate over the risks of flax oil for prostate cancer. Some studies have found a positive relationship between ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid) and prostate cancer. While these studies don't mention flax oil specifically, we do know that flax oil is a good source of ALA. What is certain is that more research must be done. If you are at risk for prostate cancer, you may want to avoid flax oil until more research is available.

Flax seed, on the other hand, has been shown to be beneficial for prostate cancer patients. Duke Medical Center researchers have done studies that show the benefits of flaxseed in reducing the growth and development of prostate cancer. Flaxseeds are rich in lignans—phytoestrogens that help to balance hormone levels in the body. One study indicated that prostate cancer patients given a low-fat diet plus flaxseed had a reduction in testosterone levels as well as lower rates of cancer cell growth.

We are in the process of gathering reports and studies on this subject. We update our Body section regularly with new medical and scientific understanding, so please check back often.

 

What is the best source of lignans?

Spectrum Organic Essential Flaxseed is your best source of lignans per serving. Ultra Enriched Flax Oil has about 18mg of lignan per 14 gram serving, while ground flaxseed has about 175 mg per 14 gram serving.

 

Will EFA oils cause me to gain weight?

Flax oil and fish oil should not cause you to put on weight. Remember, it is not "fat" that makes us fat, but too many calories and not enough exercise. Long chain fats like EFA-rich flax do not have short chain fats that turn into adipose tissue. When these long chain oils are consumed, they do not get converted by the liver into cholesterol or adipose fat. Instead, 70% of their mass (made up of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids) bypass the liver and get absorbed into the lymphatic pathways to become cell membrane tissue over time.

This means that these oils are not adipose fat builders. In fact they will soften the adipose fats and allow them to be converted through ketonic (stored fat & protein breakdown) activity back into glucose when you burn calories (by exercising, for instance). EFA oils are a healthy addition to a well balanced diet.