Fatty Acid
Flaxseed Oil (ALA)
Also known as: Flax oil, Linseed oil, ALA
Plant-based omega-3 (ALA) that requires conversion to EPA/DHA. Conversion is inefficient (5-15%). Better than nothing for vegans.
Primary uses
- Vegan omega-3
- Inflammation support
- Skin health
How it works
- ALA is essential omega-3
- Converts to EPA/DHA (5-15%)
- Independent anti-inflammatory effects
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1-2 tablespoons oil or 1000-3000 mg capsules
- Timing
- With food
- With food
- Yes
- Duration
- Safe long-term
- Special populations
- Algal oil better for DHA needs
Forms
- Oil
- Softgel
Safety
Common side effects
- Loose stools at high doses
Contraindications
- None
Evidence notes
ALA conversion to EPA/DHA is inefficient
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Cited research for Flaxseed Oil (ALA)
Clinical studies referenced across Formulate guides that mention flaxseed oil (ala). Each links to the full study page with PubMed source + the guides that cite it.
- Ziegler D, Ametov A, Barinov A, et al. (2006)Diabetes Care
Efficacy of orally administered alpha-lipoic acid for symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy: the SYDNEY 2 trial
- Ziegler D, Nowak H, Kempler P, et al. (2004)Diabetic Medicine
Treatment of symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: a meta-analysis
Flaxseed Oil (ALA) compared head-to-head
Related in Fatty Acid
Check a full stack
Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.
Open the checkerMedical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.