Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) Flaxseed Oil: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, And Other Important Information

An essential omega-3 fatty acid that is vital to human health is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It has a role in several physiological processes, including sleep, cognition, and cardiovascular health. It is a central structural element of the brain and retina. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is converted by the body into DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), is a high source in flaxseed oil, which is made from the seeds of the Linum usitatissimum plant. In order to enhance creativity, focus, and sleep, this article explores the nature, health benefits, recommended dosage, side effects, and potential drug interactions of DHA flaxseed oil.

Nature of DHA Flaxseed Oil

DHA flaxseed oil is made from the seeds of the flax plant and contains a lot of ALA, one of the omega-3 fatty acids. The human body can produce DHA and EPA from ALA, two crucial polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) critical for brain health, neuronal communication, and general well-being. Although the conversion rate is low, flaxseed oil ingestion can have a significant positive impact on health.

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Health Benefits of DHA Flaxseed Oil

Sleep Improvement: Research has demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA, can affect the release of melatonin, which controls the sleep-wake cycle (Walker et al., 2019). Consuming enough DHA can prevent age-related declines in melatonin levels, which will help keep levels at their best and improve sleep quality.
Improved Concentration and Cognitive Function: DHA is a crucial part of the membranes of neuronal cells, and its presence can affect the fluidity and performance of these membranes (Horrocks & Farooqui, 2004). According to research, having enough DHA can enhance overall cognitive performance and memory, attention, and focus (Yurko-Mauro et al., 2015).
Increased Creativity: DHA helps to maintain the right balance of neurotransmitters, which can affect mood, drive, and creativity. DHA consumption can affect serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels, three neurotransmitters crucial for creative thought (Gómez-Pinilla, 2008).
Anti-inflammatory Properties: DHA and EPA can serve as building blocks for creating specific pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), which have a role in reducing inflammation (Serhan, 2014). DHA flaxseed oil may lessen the chance of developing chronic inflammation-related disorders, such as cardiovascular and neurological diseases.

Chemistry of DHA Flaxseed Oil

With 22 carbon atoms and six double bonds, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) (22:6n-3). Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an 18-carbon omega-3 fatty acid (18:3n-3), is found in flaxseed oil and can be transformed into DHA via a sequence of desaturation and elongation processes. DHA is created due to these processes, which involve the addition of double bonds and lengthening the carbon chain. However, estimates for the efficiency of converting ALA to DHA in humans range from 1-9%. (Burdge & Wootton, 2002).

Physiological Mechanism of Action

Sleep: DHA affects melatonin secretion, which in turn affects the quality of sleep. The pineal gland produces melatonin from serotonin, and the enzymes alkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) and hydroxy indole-O-methyltransferase control the amount produced (HIOMT). By controlling the activity of these enzymes and changing the fluidity of neuronal cell membranes, DHA may boost melatonin generation and facilitate the transit of melatonin precursors (Pandi-Perumal et al., 2006).
Concentration and Cognitive Function: DHA alters signal transduction pathways, receptor activity, and the fluidity of neuronal membranes to affect cognitive performance. It has been demonstrated to affect ion channel activity, neurotransmitter release, and synaptic plasticity—all crucial for memory and learning (Horrocks & Farooqui, 2004).
Creativity: DHA predominantly affects creativity by altering the balance of neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are involved in motivation, mood, and creative thinking and may become more readily available due to DHA (Gómez-Pinilla, 2008).

Optimal Dosage of DHA Flaxseed Oil

The ideal DHA flaxseed oil dosage depends on several variables, including age, sex, and overall health. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that an adult male consume 1.6 grams of ALA daily, while an adult female consumes 1.1 grams (NIH, 2021). However, those looking to improve their ability to sleep, concentrate, or be creative could need higher doses. Before making any significant adjustments to one’s food or supplementing routine, speaking with a healthcare expert is imperative.

Side Effects of DHA Flaxseed Oil

Most people tolerate DHA flaxseed oil well in general. However, adverse effects could occur, including diarrhea, bloating, and gastrointestinal pain. By beginning with a lower dose and gradually raising it over time, these adverse effects, which are typically minor, can be reduced. Since allergic reactions might result in more severe symptoms, it is imperative to be aware of any potential allergies to flaxseed or flaxseed oil.

Potential Substance Interactions with DHA Flaxseed Oil

Some CYP enzymes, which are in charge of metabolizing many medications and other chemicals, may be inhibited by DHA (Zgheib et al., 2012). Hence, supplementing with DHA flaxseed oil may interact with drugs processed by these enzymes, possibly reducing their effectiveness or raising the possibility of adverse effects. These medicines include statins, antipsychotics, and a few antidepressants, as examples. Before combining DHA flaxseed oil with certain medications, it is recommended that you speak with a healthcare provider.

Anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs: DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids may thin the blood. DHA flaxseed oil may raise the risk of bleeding problems when combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel (Bäck, 2017). Prior to combining DHA flaxseed oil with certain medications, it is imperative to get medical advice.
Blood pressure medications: Using DHA flaxseed oil with antihypertensive drugs may result in abnormally low blood pressure (hypotension). Caution is suggested when taking DHA flaxseed oil along with blood pressure drugs like lisinopril, amlodipine, or hydrochlorothiazide.
Diabetes medications: Omega-3 fatty acids may impact blood sugar levels. When taking DHA flaxseed oil together with diabetes drugs like insulin, metformin, or sulfonylureas, the medication dosage may need to be changed to prevent hypoglycemia. In such instances, checking blood sugar levels and seeing a healthcare practitioner frequently is necessary.

Best Responsible Uses of DHA Flaxseed Oil

If you want to benefit from DHA flaxseed oil, it is crucial to pick a high-quality product with a synergistic and highly bioavailable formulation. The company Brain Luxury’s Gamma Brain Luxury is an excellent example of one such item. This dietary supplement offers DHA and other necessary elements in a well-balanced composition to ensure optimum absorption and effectiveness.

DHA flaxseed oil can be consumed in capsules or mixed with other foods like smoothies, salad dressings, and other cuisines. Flaxseed oil should be kept in a cool, dark location to avoid oxidation, which can have harmful consequences on one’s health.

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DHA Flaxseed Oil:

Conclusion

While flaxseed oil does not directly contain DHA, it provides ALA, which the body can convert to DHA and EPA to a limited extent. The omega-3 fatty acids derived from flaxseed oil offer numerous health benefits, particularly for cardiovascular, brain, and eye health, as well as anti-inflammatory and immune-supportive effects. Including flaxseed oil in the diet can contribute to overall well-being, especially when combined with other sources of omega-3 fatty acids. However, consuming a balanced diet and consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice is essential.

References:

Bäck, M. (2017). Omega-3 fatty acids in atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Future Science OA, 3(4), FSO236. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5674268/
Gómez-Pinilla, F. (2008). Brain foods: The effects of nutrients on brain function. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(7), 568-578. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2805706/
Horrocks, L. A., & Farooqui, A. A. (2004). Docosahexaenoic acid in the diet: Its importance in maintenance and restoration of neural membrane function. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids, 70 (4), 361-372. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15041028/
National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2021). Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Office of Dietary Supplements. Retrieved from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-Consumer/
Serhan, C. N. (2014). Pro-resolving lipid mediators are leads for resolution physiology. Nature, 510(7503), 92-101. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24899309/
Walker, C. G., West, A. L., Browning, L. M., Madden, J., Gambell, J. M., Jebb, S. A., & Calder, P. C. (2019). The pattern of fatty acids displaced by EPA and DHA following 12 months supplementation varies between blood cell and plasma fractions. Nutrients, 11(7), 1672. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26247960/
Yurko-Mauro, K., Alexander, D. D., & Van Elswyk, M. E. (2015). Docosahexaenoic acid and adult memory: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS ONE, 10(3), e0120391. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25786262/

Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.

Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.