Too many saturated fats are consumed and the ratio of ingested EFA's averages more like 20:1 Omega-6's to Omega-3's instead of the recommended 4:1.

The ALA in flaxseed oil helps maintain cholesterol levels because healthy fats build HDL cholesterol.  HDL cholesterol is responsible for moving fat, from storage or plaques, into the liver where processing and excretion of fat occurs.  By decreasing fatty buildup on arteries it helps to regulate blood pressure.  It also provides valuable support for immune system function because many immune cells use omega 3 fats in their cell membrane.  Having a properly functioning membrane allows the cells to do things like release packets of chemicals when they come in contact with foreign invaders.  Since healthy fats play a large role in hormone formation, ALA can thus help optimize hormone levels and strengthen male fertility.  Studies show that ALA is an anti-inflammatory compound that is beneficial for the treatment of arthritis.

Ensure your flaxseed oil is cold-pressed because heat damages the acids and creates free radicals.  Some of the damaged fats turn into trans-fatty acids, which are well known for their promotion of cardiovascular disease.  Refrigerate all liquid flaxseed oil supplements and keep capsules away from heat because they can become rancid.  Using flaxseed oil is much more cost effective than capsules because numerous capsules must be taken to make an equivalent amount of liquid oil.  Do not use flaxseed oil for cooking or frying.

Ground flaxseeds are also used as a nutritional supplement.  They contain some EFAs along with fiber, magnesium and potassium.  Golden flaxseed contains more fatty acids than the same amount of brown flaxseed.