NKO: Krill Oil

Fish oil versus flaxseed oil – What is the healthiest oil for you?

Should you take fish oil for the oil Flaxseed? When it comes to health benefits you may be wondering which oil is first class.

When compared side by side both oil find both provide an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil is one of the few plant sources of omega 3 fatty acid, acid alpha linolenic acid (ALA). On the other hand, both fish oil and krill oil are excellent sources of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

When we eat flax seed oil, our bodies convert ALA enzymatically into EPA and DHA. But researchers say there's a big difference the amount of ALA converted to EPA and DHA. This difference could change the way you choose your Omega 3 oil supplements. Surprisingly, researchers found a difference in how men and women use their bodies ALA. Scientists in England found that increasing intake of ALA leads to a general increase in EPA body. This increase takes place during the last weeks and months of supplemental ALA. Sources of ALA include flaxseed, flaxseed oil, soybeans and nuts.

Use of radioactive substances, the researchers were able to measure the amount of ALA converted to EPA and DHA in the human body. Unfortunately, the results were less than stellar – Was found the conversion of ALA to EPA in adult men was only 6 to 8% and conversion to DHA was 0.1%.

Regarding the data for women found the body of the woman was able to convert ALA to DHA more efficiently than men. Women reach a conversion of ALA to EPA to 9% – a difference amazing! Scientists believe that the amount of estrogen in the female body affects how well you can use the ALA. Scientists believe that women convert ALA to DHA more effectively to meet the demands of DHA to the fetus during pregnancy and lactation. Research has shown that DHA is important for the healthy development of fetus of mental function, the immune system and eye / hand / motor coordination and development.

Studies by other scientists have reached similar conclusions. The conversion of ALA to EPA is low and further hampered if you eat a diet high in omega 6 fatty acids.

So when it is flaxseed oil against fish oil, the answer is clear:

– Fish oils provide DHA and EPA. Flaxseed oil provides only and must convert ALA to EPA.

– Men can not convert ALA into DHA fine (less than 0.1%).

– Men only convert a small amount of ALA to EPA (about 6 to 8%).

– Women are more effectively convert ALA into DHA (up to 9% – nearly a 9000% better than men).

When it comes to fish or flax seed can use this information to help you choose the right oil to satisfy their needs for omega 3. Fish oils are an excellent source of EPA and DHA. Another excellent source of EPA and DHA is krill oil.

Flaxseed oil is a good source of fatty acids omega 3. If you choose to use flax seeds in your diet, be sure to include the source of fresh water fish or supplements to ensure you get enough EPA and DHA. Other sources dietary omega 3 fatty acids include nuts, tofu and soya.

About the Author

Kevin Lee owns/operates Healthy-Oil-Planet.com – a site dedicated to the health benefits of healthy oils. Come visit and learn the health benefits of fish oils, emu oil, neptune krill oil and more.