How does Ahiflower compare to Flax oil?
Flax and Ahiflower are both plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, but they differ in their omega-3 content and conversion rates.
Flaxseeds are a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid. However, ALA is not as efficiently converted to EPA and DHA, the two main types of omega-3s found in fatty fish, as stearidonic acid (SDA), the omega-3 found in Ahiflower oil. This means that while flaxseeds are a good source of ALA, they may not provide the same health benefits as EPA and DHA.
Ahiflower oil, on the other hand, is a rich source of SDA, which is converted to EPA and DHA more efficiently than ALA. This means that Ahiflower oil may be a more effective source of omega-3s for those who do not consume fish or fish oil supplements.
Flax seeds remain a very valuable food, and may provide benefits in breast cancer prevention and lowering blood pressure. We highly recommend you eat flax seeds regularly.
Overall, while flax and Ahiflower are both valuable sources of omega-3s, they differ in their omega-3 content, conversion rates, and culinary uses. For those looking for a more efficient source of EPA and DHA, Ahiflower oil may be a better option.
As well as converting more readily to longer chain omega metabolites, Ahiflower provides the added bonus of containing omega 6 GLA, a beneficial metabolite which converts to DGLA in the body. Higher levels of DGLA correlate with positive health outcomes.