Expert: Todd Bublitz, RCEP - 12/12/2006

Question
Hi Todd:
I'm also an expert on this site, in the legal advice category...my question is,
i've recently read up on the benefits of flax seed oil as part of my diet.  
However, i have noticed a split of opinion on whether i should buy whole
seeds and grind them up, or just buy a bottle of the flax seed oil...i've been
told the whole seeds lack the "ligans" that are the main benefit, but the
package says i can get ligans from whole seeds..
your input would be appreciated, and feel free to drop by my category and
ask some questions!
Edward  

Answer
Edward,

You can get lignans from ground flax seed as well as flax seed oil.  Using an oil supplement gives you the benefit of choosing a "high lignan" flax seed oil.

I have no idea how much whole flax seed you would need to eat to get the same amount of lignans as a supplement. You will probably pay much more for a supplement than for whole flax seeds for a certain amount of lignans.  

I hope this helps.

Todd