Decreased levels of these lipids are associated with decreased CVD risk. Flaxseed oil contains more omega-3 fatty acids in the form of ALA than any other plant product. Compared to the same amount of fish oil by weight, flaxseed oil contains twice as much omega-3 fatty acids. Although the effect of flaxseed oil consumption on CVD risk factors has not yet been adequately studied, many scientists believe that due to its high ALA and low saturated fat content, flaxseed oil might prove to be beneficial. It is best used in cold foods such as salad dressings or blender smoothie beverages.
Some people find the oil has a strong aroma and prefer the nutty flavor of ground flaxseed.
Flaxseed meal can be purchased at many health food stores, or you can grind flaxseeds yourself with a mortar and pestle or in a coffee or nut grinder. Flaxseeds and their ground meal should be kept in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent rapid spoilage. Add ground flaxseed to casseroles, breakfast cereals, or granola 2. Use ground flaxseed in muffin, pancake, waffle, or bread recipes in place of wheat or oat bran, or wheat germ. Although someday the use of flaxseed might be proven to be beneficial, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its use in CVD prevention.