Flaxseed is the richest plant source of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid, omega-3) at 23% by weight. Also the richest source of lignans (secoisolariciresinol diglucoside — SDG). ALA conversion to EPA/DHA is poor (<5%) in humans — flax does NOT replace fish oil. BUT: flax lignans have independent health benefits. 30g/day ground flaxseed reduced systolic BP by 10 mmHg in a 2013 landmark RCT (FlaxPAD trial). Ground flax must be used (whole seeds pass through undigested). Lignans are phytoestrogenic. Rich in fiber (28g per 100g — soluble + insoluble). --- *Reviewed by the Dose AI Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board* *Last updated: 2026-04-06*
Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated:
Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.