Know The Major Differences Between Fish Oil VS Flaxseed Oil For Your Body!

Understanding the usage differences and properties of dietary supplements rich in required omega-3 fatty acids, like fish oil and flaxseed oil, is essential for informed decision-making regarding personal health. While both offer potential benefits, they diverge significantly regarding the types of omega-3s they provide, their physiological effects on the body, and possible risks. These differences encompass variations in fatty acid composition, functional uses within the body, and considerations regarding contaminants like mercury.

Thus, to understand these distinctions, explore the differences between fish oil vs flaxseed oil for your body to suit your specific health needs and preferences.

Table Of Contents

1. What Is Fish Oil?

2. What Is Flaxseed Oil?

3. Flax Oil VS Fish Oil

4. Dietitian’s Recommendation

5. The Final Say

6. FAQs

7. References

What Is Fish Oil?

This is one of the most popular dietary supplements on the market. It is derived from certain types of fish known as "fatty fish," which store fat in their soft tissues rather than in their liver, unlike other types of fish. The oil is extracted from the tissue of these fatty fish, which include salmon, mackerel, and tuna. These fish are particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed for various bodily functions.

Know that omega-3 fatty acids present in fish oil offer many benefits for wellness, including improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and better brain function. Fish oil supplements are widely consumed to ensure adequate intake of these beneficial fatty acids.

Also Read: Let’s Explore 7 Incredible Benefits Of Fish Oil For Brain!

What Is Flaxseed Oil?

Scientifically proven, flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, is obtained from the seeds of the flax plant. Flaxseeds contain many lignans, fibre, α-linolenic acid and omega-3 fatty acids. More specifically, flaxseeds contain required omega-3 fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA is a fatty acid of plant origin essential to a healthy diet.

As a fatty acid, flaxseed oil can help support heart health and brain development and function. It is made from pressed and ground flaxseeds, which are traditionally used as a laxative and for quick wound healing. Flaxseed oil contains many active compounds that are believed to provide benefits.

Also Read: Understanding 6 Important Types Of Nutrients And Their Sources

Flax Oil VS Fish Oil

Although flaxseed oil and fish oil have many similar benefits, they have three distinct differences. Let’s explore the major differences between fish oil vs flaxseed oil:

1. Different Types of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fish oil and flaxseed oil offer distinct omega-3 fatty acids:

• Fish Oil: Primarily contains EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). The body readily utilises these fatty acids upon consumption.
• Flaxseed Oil: Rich in ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid), which the body must convert into EPA and DHA for utilisation. However, this conversion process is not very efficient.

The body utilises EPA and DHA directly upon ingestion, while ALA requires conversion, making their physiological effects somewhat different.

Also Read: 4 Incredible Benefits Of Fish Oil For Heart Health You Should Know

2. Diverse Functional Benefits

• Flaxseed Oil: Known for its gastrointestinal benefits, including its efficacy as both a laxative and an agent to alleviate diarrhoea. It can support digestive health in ways that fish oil doesn't typically address.
• Fish Oil: Beyond potential benefits for heart and skin health, research suggests its significance in brain growth and development, particularly in prenatal stages. This distinction underscores the physiological roles of EPA and DHA in the body compared to ALA.

3. Mercury Content Considerations

• Flaxseed Oil: Contains no mercury, making it a preferable option for individuals concerned about heavy metal contamination in fish-based omega-3 supplements.
• Fish Oil: Fish, being higher up in the food chain, may accumulate mercury from their environment. Consequently, fish oil supplements and increased seafood consumption can introduce mercury into the body. This aspect underscores the safety advantage of flaxseed oil regarding mercury exposure.

Also Read: 4 Surprising Benefits Of Fish Oil During Pregnancy Every Mom Should Know!

Dietitian’s Recommendation

Although flaxseed oil and fish oil are vital components of a well-balanced diet, fish oil may provide more benefits for wellness than flaxseed oil due to its high omega-3 content. Look for an oil supplement with esterified omega-3 fish oil to support your heart, skin and brain health.

Dt. Aditi Upadhyay

The Final Say

Fish oil vs flaxseed oil have distinct uses and are also used in varied remedies. Still, flaxseed oil and fish oil provide similar benefits, including skin and blood pressure control however, fish oil contains the required active EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids and are more helpful in reducing inflammation and mental health symptoms. Flaxseed oil has its own benefits for gastrointestinal health.

In any case, if you're interested in trying flax oil or fish oil to improve your health, it's best to talk to your doctor first.