Flaxseed Oil - Omega3 Fatty Acid All Star!Flaxseed oil is also a building block for lignans. Lignans are antioxidants and they act in the body in a similar way to estrogen. Researchers think they may prevent breast cancer by filling estrogen receptors in breast tissue. My understanding of a receptor is that it is like a parking place for a specific thing in body cells. If these receptors are occupied by lignans, then there will be no room for stronger estrogens which are suspected of causing cancer. Research suggests, as well, that lignans may help protect against age-related chronic conditions like heart disease. I have not supplemented my diet with flaxseed oil, but I have supplemented it with ground flaxseed. Ground flaxseed contains the flax oils as well as beneficial fibers and antioxidant lignans. Buying TipsWhen buying supplements, research indicates that they are not all equal.Choose a brand that uses a technique which extracts the oil from the seeds at low temperatures while also keeping it protected from light and oxygen. This preserves its healthful benefits and prevents rancidity (spoiling). Make sure the brand you buy comes in light-resistant containers as well, since light causes oils to spoil very quickly. Three brands that use this healthful process are:  The first is available by clicking the link, from Amazon, and according to my research the others should be available from health food stores, via the internet, or by mail order. Life Extension foundation also offers a bottle of 100 1000mg. Flaxseed Capsules by Jarrow Formulas available here Storage TipsThe oil should be stored in the freezer until you open it, and then in the refrigerator to prevent spoiling.Don't cook with it because heat damages it, but it is a good idea to eat it with food because it will help your body absorb and use the essential fatty acids better. Recommended DosagesDr Murray, a nutritional doctor, university faculty member, and author of Understanding Fats & Oils: Your Guide to Healing With Essential Fatty Acids ,recommends a dosage of 1 Tablespoon per 100 pounds of body weight for anti-aging benefits.He also cautions that it is a high calorie supplement, so it could cause weight gain if you make no adjustments to your diet when you begin to use it. I believe adding ground flax seed to your diet is probably the best way to get these benefits, but if that is not practical or possible for you, supplementing with the oil alone will provide many of the antioxidant benefits available from flax seed. Return from Flaxseed Oil to Antioxidant Supplements
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