Medically reviewed by Dr. Reina Punj, MBBS, PG Diploma in Endocrinology (University of South Wales), Lead Physician, Excelgenics Clinical Panel.
Essential fatty acids are structural components of cell membranes throughout the body, and the fats we eat influence many normal functions. Omegaco by Excelgenics provides alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) from cold-pressed flaxseed oil, suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Fatty Acids and Normal Hormonal Signalling
Dietary fats are building blocks for cell membranes and for some of the body's signalling molecules. The balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fats in the diet influences which of these signalling molecules the body produces, because the two families compete for the same enzymes.
Many common cooking oils, such as sunflower and safflower, are rich in omega-6 and low in omega-3. Women's needs for ALA are 1.1 g a day for adults (US adequate intake), rising to 1.4 g in pregnancy and 1.3 g while breastfeeding. There is not enough evidence to say that a flaxseed oil supplement balances hormones or eases period or menopausal symptoms; if you have troublesome symptoms, please see a doctor.
Omega-3 and Joints: What the Evidence Shows
Omega-3 fats are part of cell membranes, including in joint tissues. Most of the research on omega-3 and joints has used fish oil (EPA and DHA), which Omegaco does not contain, and the body converts only a small amount of ALA into EPA and DHA.
The evidence for flaxseed oil itself is limited. In one small trial in 22 people with rheumatoid arthritis, three months of flaxseed oil did not improve joint symptoms compared with a safflower oil placebo. Omegaco is not a treatment for any joint condition. If you have persistent joint pain, stiffness or a diagnosed joint condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Why Cold-Pressed Matters
Omegaco uses cold-pressed flaxseed oil. Each capsule contains 560 mg of flaxseed oil (an estimated 300 mg of ALA). Note that the lignans in whole flaxseed largely stay in the seed rather than the oil.
The plant-based vegetarian capsule contains no fish derivatives and no preservatives.
Who Might Consider Omegaco
Omegaco is intended for adult women and men who want a plant source of omega-3 as part of a balanced diet. It is particularly relevant for vegetarians and anyone whose diet contains little flaxseed, chia or walnuts. Take one capsule daily with a meal containing healthy fats.
Avoid use in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor advises it. Flaxseed oil may add to the effect of blood-thinning (anticoagulant or antiplatelet) medicines, so speak to your doctor before use if you take them or have any diagnosed health condition. Larger amounts can cause bloating or loose stools.
In Summary
Omegaco provides ALA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid, in a plant-based form. It is made under an FSSAI licence. Its role is nutritional: adding a plant omega-3 to the diet, not treating any concern.
References
- National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. ods.od.nih.gov
- Nordström DC, Honkanen VE, Nasu Y, et al. Alpha-linolenic acid in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized study: flaxseed vs. safflower seed. Rheumatol Int. 1995;14:231–234. PubMed
- 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.
