Linseed oil with a health-promoting effect

Linseed oil protects against diseases of the cardiovascular system

20/03/2013

Linseed oil has a similar preventive effect on cardiovascular diseases, such as the omega-3 fatty acids in sea fish. However, linseed oil can not completely replace fish consumption, according to a human study by nutritionist Melanie Köhler from the University of Jena.

Although linseed oil can not replace the consumption of sea fish, this is well suited as a complementary food, explained Köhler. For her research work, the scientist was awarded the Alpro Foundation Award 2013 on Thursday at the 50th Scientific Congress of the German Nutrition Society (DGE) in Bonn, according to the University's announcement. For years, researchers have been looking for a possible natural replacement for omega-3 fatty acids in saltwater fish. Because of the huge global population growth and the overfishing of the oceans, the recommendation of the DGE on the consumption of fish on two days a week will be difficult to implement in the long term.

Linseed oil particularly rich in alpha-linolenic acid
As part of her study, the researcher at the University of Jena examined, „whether linseed oil can serve as omega-3 fatty acid supplier instead of sea fish“, reports the University of Jena. Melanie Köhler focused on linseed oil as a potential replacement, „because the oil is particularly rich in alpha-linolenic acid.“ In the human body, these become „Fatty acid converted into the long-chain and health-omega-3 fatty acids.“ A total of nineteen volunteers (nine men and ten women) received two tablespoons of linseed oil daily for eight weeks. The average age of the subjects was 62 years. All study participants were overweight and suffered from hypertension and disorders of blood sugar metabolism. During the eight-week trial, the subjects were not allowed to eat fish.

Linseed oil doubled the omega-3 fatty acid concentration
At the beginning and after the end of the trial period, the researcher from Jena checked the concentration of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood of the subjects. Here it was shown that the intake of linseed oil caused a doubling of the omega-3 fatty acid concentration in the blood. moreover „the blood pressure levels were lower and the blood lipids improved“, stressed the nutritionist. Their study was part of a research funded by the German Research Foundation on possible herbal alternatives for sea fish omega-3 fatty acids. Although the linseed oil can not completely replace the sea fish, the results are quite promising, so the evaluation of the current investigation.

Looking for replacement of sea fish omega-3 fatty acids
A replacement for sea fish as an omega-3 fatty acid supplier is urgently required, according to the University of Jena in view of the empty-seas. Fish from aquaculture offer here so far due to its significantly lower proportion of omega-3 fatty acids, no alternative. Also, it should be possible for people who conscientiously refrain from eating fish, to provide yourself with other omega-3 fatty acids. For example, the recommendation of the German Nutrition Society to eat fish twice a week is unacceptable for many vegetarians. In fact, nature offers rich in fat „Sea fish such as herring, salmon, anchovy or mackerel“ the highest known omega-3 fatty acid content. An adequate replacement is therefore difficult to find. (Fp)

Also read about omega-3 fatty acid:
Young and healthy with omega-3 fatty acids
Fat fish prevents diabetes and heart disease
Fish oil capsules in pregnancy ineffective?
Vegetables and fish for Alzheimer's prevention
Omega-3 fatty acids: Helps against psychosis?

Picture credits: Rolf Handke