Flaxseed

Ingredient Library

Flaxseed

Discover why flaxseed has been valued for centuries and why it is recognised as one of nature's richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

Flaxseed comes from the Linum usitatissimum plant and has been consumed for thousands of years as both a food and a traditional botanical. It naturally contains omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein and a variety of beneficial plant compounds.

Flaxseed supplements are available as whole seeds, ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil and concentrated flaxseed extracts, each offering a unique nutritional profile.

The Basics

Understanding Flaxseed

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is the small seed of the Linum usitatissimum plant. It naturally contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, along with fibre, protein and lignans.

Flaxseed Forms

Flaxseed supplements are available as whole seeds, ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil and concentrated extracts. Whole and ground flaxseed provide the seed's complete nutritional profile, while flaxseed oil contains the naturally occurring oils without the fibre.

Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA)

Flaxseed is one of the richest natural plant sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid. Because the body cannot produce ALA on its own, it must be obtained through the diet or food supplements.

Key Benefits

Why It’s Used

Heart Health

Supports normal cardiovascular health and circulation.

Healthy Circulation

Supports healthy blood flow and vascular function.

Antioxidant Protection

Helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Brain Function

Supports normal cognitive function, memory and mental performance.

Healthy Inflammatory Response

Supports the body's normal inflammatory response.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is flaxseed?

Flaxseed is the seed of the Linum usitatissimum plant. It has been consumed for thousands of years and is naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fibre and other beneficial plant compounds.

What is the difference between whole flaxseed, ground flaxseed and flaxseed oil?

Whole flaxseed contains the complete seed, while ground flaxseed is simply milled to improve convenience. Flaxseed oil contains the naturally occurring oils from the seed but does not provide the fibre found in whole or ground flaxseed.

What is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)?

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential plant-based omega-3 fatty acid naturally found in flaxseed, chia seeds and walnuts. Because the body cannot produce ALA on its own, it must be obtained through food or supplements.

What are lignans?

Lignans are naturally occurring plant compounds found in flaxseed and many other plants. Flaxseed is one of the richest natural dietary sources of lignans, which contribute to its unique nutritional profile.

What foods naturally contain omega-3 fatty acids?

Plant-based omega-3 fatty acids (ALA) are naturally found in foods such as flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts and hemp seeds. Marine omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) are naturally found in oily fish and certain types of algae.

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