Medically reviewed by Dr. Reina Punj, MBBS, PG Diploma in Endocrinology (University of South Wales), Lead Physician, Excelgenics Clinical Panel.
Inflammation is a normal part of the immune response, and the balance of dietary fats is one input to the body's inflammatory signalling. Flaxseed oil, the ingredient in Omegaco, is one of the richest plant sources of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Why the Omega Balance Matters
The body makes signalling molecules from both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Because the two families compete for the same enzymes, the balance in the diet influences which signalling molecules predominate.
ALA competes with the omega-6 fat linoleic acid for these enzymes. But the body converts only a small proportion of ALA into EPA and DHA (below 15%), and most research on omega-3 and inflammation used fish oil. Omegaco contains no EPA or DHA, so those findings do not apply to it.
What the Research on Flaxseed Oil Shows
A 2023 review of flaxseed oil research described anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, but this evidence rests largely on laboratory and animal work, and well-controlled human trials are limited. It cannot be said that a flaxseed oil supplement reduces inflammation in people.
The Role of Flaxseed's Other Compounds
Flaxseed oil contains vitamin E compounds (tocopherols). The lignans flaxseed is known for, however, stay mainly in the seed, so the oil is not a meaningful source of them.
Why Many Diets Are Omega-6 Heavy
Many common cooking oils, such as sunflower and safflower oil, are rich in omega-6 and contain little omega-3, while flaxseed, chia and walnuts are not everyday foods for many people.
This is a matter of dietary balance, best addressed through food choices, with a supplement as an optional addition.
Who Might Consider Omegaco
Omegaco is intended for adults wanting a plant source of omega-3, particularly vegetarians and vegans. Each capsule contains 560 mg of cold-pressed flaxseed oil (an estimated 300 mg of ALA); take one capsule daily with a meal containing healthy fats.
Flaxseed oil may add to the effect of blood-thinning (anticoagulant or antiplatelet) medicines, so speak to your doctor first if you take them. Larger amounts can cause bloating or loose stools. Avoid use in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor advises it. If you have an inflammatory condition, follow your doctor's advice.
In Summary
Omegaco provides ALA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid, in a plant-based capsule, made under an FSSAI licence. Its role is nutritional, not therapeutic.
References
- Al-Madhagy S, Ashmawy NS, Mamdouh A, Eldahshan OA, Farag MA. A comprehensive review of the health benefits of flaxseed oil in relation to its chemical composition and comparison with other omega-3-rich oils. Eur J Med Res. 2023;28:240. doi:10.1186/s40001-023-01203-6
- National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. ods.od.nih.gov
- Burdge GC, Calder PC. Conversion of alpha-linolenic acid to longer-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in human adults. Reprod Nutr Dev. 2005;45(5):581–597. doi:10.1051/rnd:2005047
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University. Lignans. lpi.oregonstate.edu
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil. nccih.nih.gov
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Food supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition or take medication.
