Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 3 of 5 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Lignan Omega Twin Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Barlean's

Lignan Omega Twin label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Fat/fatty Acid
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Lignan Omega Twin against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Lignan Omega Twin is a dietary supplement by Barlean's with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for brain and cognitive health, eye and vision health, fetal and infant development.Based on those ingredients, 597 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Flaxseed Particulate, Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

Pharmacist-reviewed data Checks every ingredient Answer in seconds
Prefer a human? Send your question to our licensed pharmacists — free, answered by email within 24 hours.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 11, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 5 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • “Polyunsaturated Fat” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (1.70 g) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Monounsaturated Fat” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (0.40 g) without saying how much of each component you get.

Lignan Omega Twin contains 5 active ingredients. The main ones are omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids — healthy fats your body needs — plus Gamma-Linolenic Acid, which is another type of fatty acid.

The product also includes flaxseed particulate, which brings lignans (plant compounds with mild hormone-like effects) into the mix. Each capsule is wrapped in a gelatin shell coated with carob.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Complete essential fatty acid nutrition.
  • We looked for evidence on: Hypercholesterolemia, Hyperlipidemia, Cardiovascular disease (CVD), Constipation, Menopausal symptoms, Diabetes — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Docosahexaenoic Acid (dha) is rated "Possibly Effective" for Hyperlipidemia (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Flaxseed is rated "Possibly Effective" for Constipation, Diabetes, Hypercholesterolemia, Hypertension.
  • Also on file: Omega-6 Fatty Acids is rated "Possibly Ineffective" for Cardiovascular disease (CVD), Hyperlipidemia.

Flaxseed in this product is possibly effective for high cholesterol, blood sugar control, breast tenderness (mastalgia), high blood pressure, and constipation — though the evidence isn't definitive. Omega-6 fatty acids are possibly ineffective for high cholesterol, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, and child development, according to the data we hold.

The bottom line: flaxseed has some promising research behind it, but omega-6's benefit here is questionable.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Docosahexaenoic Acid (dha) Omega-6 Fatty Acids Flaxseed

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 3 of the 3 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 3 of 3.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 3 of 3.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Flaxseed is generally well tolerated as a food, but supplement doses can cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, and other digestive complaints — especially at higher doses. Start small and drink plenty of water.

Rare severe allergic reactions are possible. Flaxseed has mild hormone-like effects, so check with your doctor before taking it as a supplement if you're concerned about hormone balance.

We don't have enough safety data on flaxseed supplements while breastfeeding, so use caution. Omega-6 supplements carry uncertain benefits and their safety as concentrates isn't well established — dietary omega-6 from food is fine.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Docosahexaenoic Acid (dha) Omega-6 Fatty Acids Flaxseed

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 2 of the 3 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Docosahexaenoic Acid (dha), Flaxseed.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 597 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking Lignan Omega Twin, double-check with your pharmacist if you're on blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (highest concern — Moderate severity); blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, antibiotics, or estrogen-based hormone therapies. All are Moderate severity interactions with the flaxseed in this product.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

If you take blood thinners, blood pressure meds, diabetes drugs, antibiotics, or hormone medications, check with your pharmacist before starting this product. The flaxseed in it can interact with these drugs.

Otherwise, it's worth considering if you're looking for omega fatty acids and want the added lignans from flaxseed — just expect possible digestive side effects and start with a small dose.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 3 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Dec 23, 2011.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Lignan Omega Twin, straight from the product label.

Brand Barlean's
Barcode (UPC) 705875100151
Net contents 120 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Dec 23, 2011
DSLD ID 3161
Product type Fat/fatty Acid
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses Nutrient, All Other
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
3 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
40
UPC/BARCODE
705875100151
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories25 {Calories}--
Calories from Fat22 {Calories}--
Omega-3 Fatty Acids1115 mg--
Total Fat2 g4%
Saturated Fat0.2 g--
Polyunsaturated Fat1.7 g--
Gamma-Linolenic Acid105 mg--
Omega-6 Fatty Acids500 mg--
Omega-9 Fatty Acids440 mg--
Monounsaturated Fat0.4 g--
Flaxseed Particulate480 mg--

Other ingredients: Each light-resistant Carob coated Gelatin Capsule contains:

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formula

Barlean's Lignan Omega Twin supplies complete essential fatty acid nutrition with the Omega's 3, 6, 9 and GLA. Barlean's Fresh ExPress extraction process gently liberates delicate Flax and Borage Oil, while capturing Flaxseed particulate containing Lignan.

General Statements

Barlean's Fresh ExPressed Lignan Omega Twin ~ Leading "Complete" EFA product ~ Gently cold pressed ~ Convenient alternative to liquid Omega Twin ~ 100% satisfaction guaranteed

Made with care from my family to yours Bruce Barlean

Product of U.S.A.

~ Pure natural oils ~ Old fashioned care

1000 mg ea. Voted #1 world's freshest

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Use: Take 1-3 capsules 3 times daily. May be taken with or without meals.

FDA Statement of Identity

Flax & Borage Oil Supplement

Brand IP Statement(s)

Fresh ExPressed

Formulation

Herbicide/pesticide free

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

Lignan Omega Twin label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's

These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container40 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Interacts with
375 drugs
1115 mg per serving

DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid found in fatty fish and algae that is a building block for the brain, nervous system, and eyes. It is widely used and gen...

Omega-3 Fatty Acids monograph & interactions

Gamma-Linolenic Acid

105 mg per serving

Omega-6 Fatty Acids

No known
interactions
500 mg per serving

Omega-6 fatty acids are essential fats your body needs but cannot make on its own, and most people get plenty from everyday foods like vegetable oils,...

Omega-6 Fatty Acids monograph & interactions

Omega-9 Fatty Acids

440 mg per serving

Flaxseed Particulate

Interacts with
597 drugs
480 mg per serving Form: Lignans

Flaxseed is a nutritious food rich in fiber, omega-3 fats (ALA), and plant compounds called lignans. It is most reliably helpful for constipation and...

Flaxseed Particulate monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Each light-resistant Carob coated Gelatin Capsule contains:. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Lignan Omega Twin?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

 Go to the checker
597Drugs
597 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Flaxseed Particulate 597
Omega-3 Fatty Acids 375

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Lignan Omega Twin interact with 597 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

2 of the 5 ingredients in Lignan Omega Twin interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Flaxseed Particulate Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Lignan Omega Twin with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Flaxseed Particulate5 drug types · 597 drugs

Antibiotic Drugs

Theoretically, antibiotics might interfere with the metabolism of flaxseed constituents, which could potentially alter the effects of flaxseed.
Some potential benefits of flaxseed are thought to be due to its lignan content. Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), a major lignan precursor, is found in high concentrations in flaxseed. SDG is converted by bacteria in the colon to the lignans enterolactone and enterodiol. Antibiotics alter the flora of the colon, which could theoretically alter the metabolism of flaxseed.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, using flaxseed in combination with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding.
Some clinical evidence suggests that the oil contained in flaxseed can decrease platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, flaxseed might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk for hypoglycemia.
Some clinical research suggests that flaxseed can lower blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, flaxseed might have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.
Clinical research shows that daily flaxseed consumption, especially for longer than 12 weeks, modestly reduces blood pressure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, taking flaxseed might decrease the effects of estrogens.
Flaxseed contains lignans with mild estrogenic and possible antiestrogenic effects. The lignans seem to compete with circulating endogenous estrogen and might reduce estrogen binding to estrogen receptors, resulting in an anti-estrogen effect. It is unclear if this effect transfers to exogenously administered estrogens.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Flaxseed Particulate full monograph & interactions

Omega-3 Fatty Acids3 drug types · 375 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, DHA may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Although some clinical evidence suggests that DHA might reduce collagen-stimulated platelet aggregation and thromboxane release, most clinical evidence suggests that DHA alone does not affect blood clotting. However, theoretically, when given in combination with EPA as fish oil, concomitant use with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs (including aspirin) might increase risk of bleeding.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking DHA with antidiabetes drugs might reduce the effects of these medications.
In people with type 2 diabetes, including those taking oral hypoglycemic medications, DHA seems to increase fasting blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking DHA with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Fish oils containing DHA can lower blood pressure and might have additive effects in patients treated with antihypertensives; use with caution.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Omega-3 Fatty Acids full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Lignan Omega Twin, from the product label.

Barlean's

See all Barlean's products
Name
Barlean's Organic Oils
Street Address
4936 Lake Terrell Rd.
City
Ferndale
State
WA
ZipCode
98248
Phone Number
800/445-3529
Web Address
www.barleans.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's: Common Questions

Does Lignan Omega Twin by Barlean's interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Lignan Omega Twin has a known interaction with 597 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Lignan Omega Twin contains 5 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Will this help with my cholesterol?
The flaxseed in this product is possibly effective for high cholesterol — there's some research backing it. But omega-6 fatty acids by themselves are rated possibly ineffective for cholesterol. So you'd mainly be banking on the flaxseed part.
What's the difference between omega-3 and omega-6?
Both are essential fats your body needs, but they work a bit differently. Omega-3 is known for heart and brain health. Omega-6 is in this product too, though the evidence for supplement omega-6 on its own is weaker. The ratio between them in your diet matters — too much omega-6 relative to omega-3 may raise inflammation and heart disease risk.
Can I take this while pregnant or breastfeeding?
For pregnancy, the data shows omega-6 is likely safe, but possibly unsafe — the safety information is mixed, so talk with your doctor. For breastfeeding, we don't have enough reliable safety data on flaxseed supplements, so use caution and check with your doctor first.
What are lignans?
Lignans are plant compounds in flaxseed with mild hormone-like effects. They're why flaxseed might help with breast tenderness and why you should avoid large supplement doses if you're concerned about hormone balance without your doctor's okay.
Will flaxseed give me digestive side effects?
Possibly. Bloating, gas, and diarrhea are common, especially when you start or take higher doses. Begin with a small amount, drink plenty of water, and go slow — that usually helps. Doses over 45 grams a day are less likely to be tolerated.
Is this product safe?
Flaxseed is generally well tolerated, and the omegas are food-derived, so most people handle it fine. But it interacts with several common medications, and it can cause digestive upset. Talk with your pharmacist about your specific situation before you start.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Lignan Omega Twin is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Lignan Omega Twin label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Lignan Omega Twin’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Docosahexaenoic Acid (dha)

Interacts with 375 drugs

DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid found in fatty fish and algae that is a building block for the brain, nervous system, and eyes. It is widely used and generally well tolerated, with the stronges...

Read the full Docosahexaenoic Acid (dha) monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-6 fatty acids are essential fats your body needs but cannot make on its own, and most people get plenty from everyday foods like vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. Supplements such as ev...

Read the full Omega-6 Fatty Acids monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Flaxseed

Interacts with 597 drugs

Flaxseed is a nutritious food rich in fiber, omega-3 fats (ALA), and plant compounds called lignans. It is most reliably helpful for constipation and may modestly lower cholesterol, but evid...

Read the full Flaxseed monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Lignan Omega Twin's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 106 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Docosahexaenoic Acid (dha) 49 references
  1. Akedo I, Ishikawa H, Nakamura T, et al. Three cases with familial adenomatous polyposis diagnosed as having malignant lesions in the course of a long-term trial using docosahexanoic acid (DHA)-concentrated fish oil capsules (abstract). Jpn J Clin Oncol PubMed
  2. Prisco D, Paniccia R, Bandinelli B, et al. Effect of medium-term supplementation with a moderate dose of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on blood pressure in mild hypertensive patients. Thromb Res 1998;1:105-12.
  3. Grimsgaard S, Bonaa KH, Hansen JB, Nordoy A. Highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in humans have similar triacylglycerol-lowering effects but divergent effects on serum fatty acids. Am J Clin Nutr 1997;66:649-59.
  4. Toft I, Bonaa KH, Ingebretsen OC, et al. Effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on glucose homeostasis and blood pressure in essential hypertension. A randomized, controlled trial. Ann Intern Med 1995;123:911-8.
  5. Sacks FM, Hebert P, Appel LJ, et al. Short report: the effect of fish oil on blood pressure and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels in phase I of the trials of hypertension prevention. J Hypertens 1994;12:209-13.
  6. Vandongen R, Mori TA, Burke V, et al. Effects on blood pressure of omega 3 fats in subjects at increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Hypertension 1993;22:371-9. PubMed
  7. FDA. Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Letter regarding dietary supplement health claim for omega-3 fatty acids and coronary heart disease. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/dockets/95s0316/95s-0316-Rpt0272-38-Appendix-D-Reference
  8. Pedersen HS, Mulvad G, Seidelin KN, et al. N-3 fatty acids as a risk factor for haemorrhagic stroke. Lancet 1999;353:812-3. PubMed
  9. Ito Y, Suzuki K, Imai H, et al. Effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids on atrophic gastritis in a Japanese population. Cancer Lett 2001;163:171-8. PubMed
  10. Kris-Ehterton PM, Harris WS, Appel LJ, et al. Fish consumption, fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids, and cardiovascular disease. Circulation 2002;106:2747-57. PubMed
  11. Woodman RJ, Mori TA, Burke V, et al. Effects of purified eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids on glycemic control, blood pressure, and serum lipids in type 2 diabetic patients with treated hypertension. Am J Clin Nutr 2002;76:1007-15.. PubMed
  12. Marangell LB, Martinez JM, Zboyan HA, et al. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid in the treatment of major depression. Am J Psychiatry 2003;160:996-8.. PubMed
  13. Leng GC, Smith FB, Fowkes FG, et al. Relationship between plasma essential fatty acids and smoking, serum lipids, blood pressure and haemostatic and rheological factors. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1994;51:101-8. PubMed
  14. Nelson GJ, Schmidt PS, Bartolini GL, et al. The effect of dietary docosahexaenoic acid on platelet function, platelet fatty acid composition, and blood coagulation in humans. Lipids 1997;32:1129-36. PubMed
  15. Wheaton DH, Hoffman DR, Locke KG, et al. Biological safety assessment of docosahexaenoic acid supplementation in a randomized clinical trial for X-linked retinitis pigmentosa. Arch Ophthalmol 2003;121:1269-78. PubMed
  16. Malcolm CA, McCulloch DL, Montgomery C, et al. Maternal docosahexaenoic acid supplementation during pregnancy and visual evoked potential development in term infants: a double blind, prospective, randomised trial. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2003;88: DOI
  17. Sanjurjo P, Ruiz-Sanz JI, Jimeno P, et al. Supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid in the last trimester of pregnancy: maternal-fetal biochemical findings. J Perinat Med 2004;32:132-6.
  18. Montgomery C, Speake BK, Cameron A, et al. Maternal docosahexaenoic acid supplementation and fetal accretion. Br J Nutr 2003;90:135-45. DOI
  19. Lauritzen L, Hoppe C, Straarup EM, Michaelsen KF. Maternal fish oil supplementation in lactation and growth during the first 2.5 years of life. Pediatr Res 2005;58:235-42. PubMed
  20. Hawkes JS, Bryan DL, Makrides M, et al. A randomized trial of supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid-rich tuna oil and its effects on the human milk cytokines interleukin 1 beta, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha. Am J Clin Nutr 2002;75:75
  21. Uauy R, Hoffman DR, Mena P, et al. Term infant studies of DHA and ARA supplementation on neurodevelopment: Results of randomized controlled trials. J Pediatr 2003;143:S17-25. PubMed
  22. Decsi, T., Campoy, C., and Koletzko, B. Effect of N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation in pregnancy: the Nuheal trial. Adv.Exp Med Biol 2005;569:109-113. PubMed
  23. Mori, T. A., Bao, D. Q., Burke, V., Puddey, I. B., and Beilin, L. J. Docosahexaenoic acid but not eicosapentaenoic acid lowers ambulatory blood pressure and heart rate in humans. Hypertension 1999;34(2):253-260. PubMed
  24. Otto, S. J., van Houwelingen, A. C., and Hornstra, G. The effect of supplementation with docosahexaenoic and arachidonic acid derived from single cell oils on plasma and erythrocyte fatty acids of pregnant women in the second trimester. Prostaglandins Le PubMed
  25. Helland, I. B., Saugstad, O. D., Smith, L., Saarem, K., Solvoll, K., Ganes, T., and Drevon, C. A. Similar effects on infants of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids supplementation to pregnant and lactating women. Pediatrics 2001;108(5):E82. PubMed
  26. Nestel, P., Shige, H., Pomeroy, S., Cehun, M., Abbey, M., and Raederstorff, D. The n-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid increase systemic arterial compliance in humans. Am.J.Clin.Nutr. 2002;76(2):326-330. PubMed
  27. Woodman, R. J., Mori, T. A., Burke, V., Puddey, I. B., Barden, A., Watts, G. F., and Beilin, L. J. Effects of purified eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid on platelet, fibrinolytic and vascular function in hypertensive type 2 diabetic patients PubMed
  28. Jensen, C. L., Voigt, R. G., Prager, T. C., Zou, Y. L., Fraley, J. K., Rozelle, J. C., Turcich, M. R., Llorente, A. M., Anderson, R. E., and Heird, W. C. Effects of maternal docosahexaenoic acid intake on visual function and neurodevelopment in breastfed
  29. Theobald, H. E., Goodall, A. H., Sattar, N., Talbot, D. C., Chowienczyk, P. J., and Sanders, T. A. Low-dose docosahexaenoic acid lowers diastolic blood pressure in middle-aged men and women. J Nutr 2007;137(4):973-978.
  30. Mischoulon D, Best-Popescu C, Laposata M, et al. A double-blind dose-finding pilot study of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for major depressive disorder. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2008;18(9):639-645. PubMed
  31. Birch EE, Carlson SE, Hoffman DR, et al. The DIAMOND (DHA Intake And Measurement Of Neural Development) Study: a double-masked, randomized controlled clinical trial of the maturation of infant visual acuity as a function of the dietary level of docosahexa
  32. Carlson SE, Colombo J, Gajewski BJ, Gustafson KM, Mundy D, Yeast J, Georgieff MK, Markley LA, Kerling EH, Shaddy DJ. DHA supplementation and pregnancy outcomes. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 Apr;97(4):808-15. PubMed
  33. Escamilla-Nuñez MC, Barraza-Villarreal A, Hernández-Cadena L, Navarro-Olivos E, Sly PD, Romieu I. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation during pregnancy and respiratory symptoms in children. Chest. 2014 Aug;146(2):373-82. PubMed
  34. Fu YQ, Zheng JS, Yang B, Li D. Effect of individual omega-3 fatty acids on the risk of prostate cancer: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. J Epidemiol. 2015;25(4):261-74. PubMed
  35. Imhoff-Kunsch B, Stein AD, Villalpando S, Martorell R, Ramakrishnan U. Docosahexaenoic acid supplementation from mid-pregnancy to parturition influenced breast milk fatty acid concentrations at 1 month postpartum in Mexican women. J Nutr. 2011 Feb;141(2): PubMed
  36. Judge MP, Cong X, Harel O, Courville AB, Lammi-Keefe CJ. Maternal consumption of a DHA-containing functional food benefits infant sleep patterning: an early neurodevelopmental measure. Early Hum Dev. 2012 Jul;88(7):531-7. PubMed
  37. Mulder KA, King DJ, Innis SM. Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency in infants before birth identified using a randomized trial of maternal DHA supplementation in pregnancy. PLoS One. 2014 Jan 10;9(1):e83764. PubMed
  38. Richardson AJ, Burton JR, Sewell RP, Spreckelsen TF, Montgomery P. Docosahexaenoic acid for reading, cognition and behavior in children aged 7-9 years: a randomized, controlled trial (the DOLAB Study). PLoS One. 2012;7(9):e43909. PubMed
  39. Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation 2012;25(4);3-4
  40. FDA announces qualified health claims for omega-3 fatty acids. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/Food/LabelingNutrition/ucm072756.htm. Accessed April 15 2019.
  41. Breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Section on Breastfeeding. Pediatrics. 2012;129(3):e827-41. PubMed
  42. Zhang Z, Fulgoni VL, Kris-Etherton PM, Mitmesser SH. Dietary Intakes of EPA and DHA Omega-3 Fatty Acids among US Childbearing-Age and Pregnant Women: An Analysis of NHANES 2001-2014. Nutrients. 2018;10(4). PubMed
  43. Montgomery P, Spreckelsen TF, Burton A, Burton JR, Richardson AJ. Docosahexaenoic acid for reading, working memory and behavior in UK children aged 7-9: A randomized controlled trial for replication (the DOLAB II study). PLoS One. 2018;13(2):e0192909. PubMed
  44. Marc I, Piedboeuf B, Lacaze-Masmonteil T, et al. Effect of maternal docosahexaenoic acid supplementation on bronchopulmonary dysplasia-free survival in breastfed preterm infants: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2020;324(2):157-167. PubMed
  45. Fougère H, Bilodeau JF, Lavoie PM, et al. Docosahexaenoic acid-rich algae oil supplementation on breast milk fatty acid profile of mothers who delivered prematurely: a randomized clinical trial. Sci Rep 2021;11(1):21492. PubMed
  46. Garmendia ML, Casanello P, Flores M, Kusanovic JP, Uauy R. The effects of a combined intervention (docosahexaenoic acid supplementation and home-based dietary counseling) on metabolic control in obese and overweight pregnant women: the MIGHT study. Am J O PubMed
  47. Christifano DN, Gustafson KM, Carlson SE, et al. Maternal docosahexaenoic acid exposure needed to achieve maternal-newborn EQ. Nutrients 2022;14(16):3300. PubMed
  48. Vizzari G, Morniroli D, Alessandretti F, et al. Comparative analysis of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content in mother's milk of term and preterm mothers. Nutrients 2022;14(21):4595. PubMed
  49. Yang Y, Li G, Li F, et al. Impact of DHA from algal oil on the breast milk DHA levels of lactating women: A randomized controlled trial in China. Nutrients 2022;14(16):3410. PubMed

See these in context on the Docosahexaenoic Acid (dha) monograph →

Omega-6 Fatty Acids 20 references
  1. Godley PA. Essential fatty acid consumption and risk of breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat 1995;35:91-5. PubMed
  2. Newcomer LM, King IB, Wicklund KG, Stanford JL. The association of fatty acids with prostate cancer risk. Prostate 2001;47:262-8. DOI
  3. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate. Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2005. Available at: http://www.nap.edu/books/03 DOI
  4. Colter, A. L., Cutler, C., and Meckling, K. A. Fatty acid status and behavioural symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adolescents: a case-control study. Nutr J 2008;7:8. PubMed
  5. Yamada, T., Strong, J. P., Ishii, T., Ueno, T., Koyama, M., Wagayama, H., Shimizu, A., Sakai, T., Malcom, G. T., and Guzman, M. A. Atherosclerosis and omega-3 fatty acids in the populations of a fishing village and a farming village in Japan. Atheroscler
  6. Conklin, S. M., Manuck, S. B., Yao, J. K., Flory, J. D., Hibbeln, J. R., and Muldoon, M. F. High omega-6 and low omega-3 fatty acids are associated with depressive symptoms and neuroticism. Psychosom.Med. 2007;69(9):932-934.
  7. Richardson, A. J., Cyhlarova, E., and Ross, M. A. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid concentrations in red blood cell membranes relate to schizotypal traits in healthy adults. Prostaglandins Leukot.Essent.Fatty Acids 2003;69(6):461-466. PubMed
  8. Assies, J., Lok, A., Bockting, C. L., Weverling, G. J., Lieverse, R., Visser, I., Abeling, N. G., Duran, M., and Schene, A. H. Fatty acids and homocysteine levels in patients with recurrent depression: an explorative pilot study. Prostaglandins Leukot.Es PubMed
  9. Chiplonkar, S. A., Agte, V. V., Tarwadi, K. V., Paknikar, K. M., and Diwate, U. P. Micronutrient deficiencies as predisposing factors for hypertension in lacto-vegetarian Indian adults. J Am Coll.Nutr 2004;23(3):239-247. PubMed
  10. Mamalakis, G., Kiriakakis, M., Tsibinos, G., Hatzis, C., Flouri, S., Mantzoros, C., and Kafatos, A. Depression and serum adiponectin and adipose omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in adolescents. Pharmacol.Biochem.Behav. 2006;85(2):474-479. PubMed
  11. Okuyama, H., Ichikawa, Y., Sun, Y., Hamazaki, T., and Lands, W. E. Cancers common in the USA are stimulated by omega 6 fatty acids and large amounts of animal fats, but suppressed by omega 3 fatty acids and cholesterol. World Rev Nutr Diet. 2007;96:143-1
  12. Martinez-Ramirez, M. J., Palma, S., Martinez-Gonzalez, M. A., Delgado-Martinez, A. D., de la Fuente, C., and Delgado-Rodriguez, M. Dietary fat intake and the risk of osteoporotic fractures in the elderly. Eur.J Clin Nutr 2007;61(9):1114-1120. PubMed
  13. Sonestedt, E., Gullberg, B., and Wirfalt, E. Both food habit change in the past and obesity status may influence the association between dietary factors and postmenopausal breast cancer. Public Health Nutr 2007;10(8):769-779. PubMed
  14. Simopoulos, A. P. The omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio, genetic variation, and cardiovascular disease. Asia Pac.J Clin Nutr 2008;17 Suppl 1:131-134.
  15. Harris, W. S., Mozaffarian, D., Rimm, E., Kris-Etherton, P., Rudel, L. L., Appel, L. J., Engler, M. M., Engler, M. B., and Sacks, F. Omega-6 fatty acids and risk for cardiovascular disease: a science advisory from the American Heart Association Nutrition DOI
  16. Godley, P. A., Campbell, M. K., Gallagher, P., Martinson, F. E., Mohler, J. L., and Sandler, R. S. Biomarkers of essential fatty acid consumption and risk of prostatic carcinoma. Cancer Epidemiol.Biomarkers Prev. 1996;5(11):889-895.
  17. Lee E, Kim H, Kim H, Ha EH, Chang N. Association of maternal omega-6 fatty acid intake with infant birth outcomes: Korean Mothers and Children's Environmental Health (MOCEH). Nutr J 2018;17(1):47. PubMed
  18. Pawelczyk T, Trafalska E, Pawelczyk A, Kotlicka-Antczak M. Differences in omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid consumption in people at ultra-high risk of psychosis, first-episode schizophrenia, and in healthy controls. Early Interv Psychiatry 2
  19. Gardner KG, Gebretsadik T, Hartman TJ, et al. Prenatal omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and childhood atopic dermatitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2020;8(3):937-944. PubMed
  20. Luo J, Ge H, Sun J, Hao K, Yao W, Zhang D. Associations of dietary ?-3, ?-6 fatty acids consumption with sleep disorders and sleep duration among adults. Nutrients 2021;13(5):1475. PubMed

See these in context on the Omega-6 Fatty Acids monograph →

Flaxseed 37 references
  1. Kolonel LN, Nomura AM, Cooney RV. Dietary fat and prostate cancer: current status. J Natl Cancer Inst 1999;91:414-28. PubMed
  2. Ramon JM, Bou R, Romea S, et al. Dietary fat intake and prostate cancer risk: a case-control study in Spain. Cancer Causes Control 2000;11:679-85. PubMed
  3. Thompson LU, Rickard SE, Cheung F, et al. Variability in anticancer lignan levels in flaxseed. Nutr Cancer 1997;27:26-30. PubMed
  4. Nordstrom 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;14:231-4. PubMed
  5. Cunnane SC, Ganguli S, Menard C, et al. High alpha-linolenic acid flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum): some nutritional properties in humans. Br J Nutr 1993;69:443-53.
  6. Clark WF, Parbtani A, Huff MW, et al. Flaxseed: a potential treatment for lupus nephritis. Kidney Int 1995;48:475-80. PubMed
  7. Cunnane SC, Hamadeh MJ, Liede AC, et al. Nutritional attributes of traditional flaxseed in healthy young adults. Am J Clin Nutr 1995;61:62-8. PubMed
  8. De Stefani E, Deneo-Pellegrini H, Boffetta P, et al. Alpha-linolenic acid and risk of prostate cancer: a case-control study in Uruguay. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2000;9:335-8.
  9. Giovannucci E, Rimm EB, Colditz GA, et al. A prospective study of dietary fat and risk of prostate cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 1993;85:1571-9. PubMed
  10. Clark WF, Kortas C, Heidenheim P, et al. Flaxseed in lupus nephritis: a two-year nonplacebo-controlled crossover study. J Am Coll Nutr 2001;20:143-8. PubMed
  11. Serraino M, Thompson LU. The effect of flaxseed supplementation on early risk markers for mammary carcinogenesis. Cancer Lett 1991;60:135-42. PubMed
  12. Rickard SE, Yuan YV, Thompson LU. Plasma insulin-like growth factor I levels in rats are reduced by dietary supplementation of flaxseed or its lignan secoisolariciresinol diglycoside. Cancer Lett 2000;161:47-55. PubMed
  13. Mousavi Y, Adlercreutz H. Enterolactone and estradiol inhibit each other's proliferative effect on MCF-7 breast cancer cells in culture. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1992;41:615-9.. PubMed
  14. Adlercreutz H, Fotsis T, Bannwart C, et al. Determination of urinary lignans and phytoestrogen metabolites, potential antiestrogens and anticarcinogens, in urine of women on various habitual diets. J Steroid Biochem 1986;25:791-7.. PubMed
  15. Rose DP. Dietary fiber and breast cancer. Nutr Cancer 1990;13:1-8.. PubMed
  16. Lemay A, Dodin S, Kadri N, et al. Flaxseed dietary supplement versus hormone replacement therapy in hypercholesterolemic menopausal women. Obstet Gynecol 2002;100:495-504.. DOI
  17. Brooks JD, Ward WE, Lewis JE, et al. Supplementation with flaxseed alters estrogen metabolism in postmenopausal women to a greater extent than does supplementation with an equal amount of soy. Am J Clin Nutr 2004;79:318-25.. PubMed
  18. Laaksonen DE, Laukkanen JA, Niskanen L, et al. Serum linoleic and total polyunsaturated fatty acids in relation to prostate and other cancers: a population-based cohort study. Int J Cancer 2004;111:444-50.. PubMed
  19. Dodin S, Lemay A, Jacques H, et al. The effects of flaxseed dietary supplement on lipid profile, bone mineral density, and symptoms in menopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, wheat germ placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2005 PubMed
  20. Brouwer IA, Katan MB, Zock PL. Dietary alpha-linolenic acid is associated with reduced risk of fatal coronary heart disease, but increased prostate cancer risk: a meta-analysis. J Nutr 2004;134:919-22.
  21. Demark-Wahnefried W, Polascik TJ, George SL, et al. Flaxseed supplementation (not dietary fat restriction) reduces prostate cancer proliferation rates in men presurgery. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2008;17:3577-87. PubMed
  22. Thompson LU, Chen JM, Li T, et al. Dietary flaxseed alters tumor biological markers in postmenopausal breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2005;11:3828-35. PubMed
  23. Mani UV, Mani I, Biswas M, Kumar SN. An open-label study on the effect of flax seed powder (Linum usitatissimum) supplementation in the management of diabetes mellitus. J Diet Suppl 2011;8:257-65.
  24. Rhee Y, Brunt A. Flaxseed supplementation improved insulin resistance in obese glucose intolerant people: a randomized crossover design. Nutr J 2011;10:44. PubMed
  25. Cornish SM, Chilibeck PD, Paus-Jennsen L, et al. A randomized controlled trial of the effects of flaxseed lignan complex on metabolic syndrome composite score and bone mineral in older adults. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2009;34:89-98. PubMed
  26. Cockerell KM, Watkins AS, Reeves LB, et al. Effects of linseeds on the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot randomised controlled trial. J Hum Nutr Diet 2012;25:435-43. PubMed
  27. Colli MC, Bracht A, Soares AA, et al. Evaluation of the efficacy of flaxseed meal and flaxseed extract in reducing menopausal symptoms. J Med Food 2012;15:840-5. PubMed
  28. Allman, M. A., Pena, M. M., and Pang, D. Supplementation with flaxseed oil versus sunflowerseed oil in healthy young men consuming a low fat diet: effects on platelet composition and function. Eur.J Clin.Nutr. 1995;49(3):169-178.
  29. Simbalista RL, Sauerbronn AV, Aldrighi JM, Areas JA. Consumption of a flaxseed-rich food is not more effective than a placebo in alleviating the climacteric symptoms of postmenopausal women. J Nutr 2010;140:293-7. PubMed
  30. Patade A, Devareddy L, Lucas EA, et al. Flaxseed reduces total and LDL cholesterol concentrations in Native American postmenopausal women. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2008;17:355-66. PubMed
  31. Rodriguez-Leyva D, Weighell W, Edel AL, LaVallee R, Dibrov E, Pinneker R, Maddaford TG, Ramjiawan B, Aliani M, Guzman R, Pierce GN. Potent antihypertensive action of dietary flaxseed in hypertensive patients. Hypertension. 2013 Dec;62(6):1081-9. PubMed
  32. Bloedon LT, Balikai S, Chittams J, et al. Flaxseed and cardiovascular risk factors: results from a double blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial. J Am Coll Nutr 2008;27:65-74. PubMed
  33. Ursoniu S, Sahebkar A, Andrica F, Serban C, Banach M; Lipid and Blood Pressure Meta-analysis Collaboration Group. Effects of flaxseed supplements on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trial. Clin Nutr. 2016 Jun;3 PubMed
  34. Mohammadi-Sartang M, Sohrabi Z, Barati-Bodaji R, Raeisi-Dehkordi H, Mazloom Z. Flaxseed supplementation on glucose control and insulin sensitivity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Nutr Rev. 2018 Feb 1;76( PubMed
  35. Haidari F, Banaei-Jahromi N, Zakerkish M, Ahmadi K. The effects of flaxseed supplementation on metabolic status in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized open-labeled controlled clinical trial. Nutr J. 2020;19(1):8. PubMed
  36. Villarreal-Renteria AI, Herrera-Echauri DD, Rodríguez-Rocha NP, et al. Effect of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) supplementation on glycemic control and insulin resistance in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomi
  37. Li L, Li H, Gao Y, Vafaei S, Zhang X, Yang M. Effect of flaxseed supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review, and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Food Funct 2023;14(2):675-690. PubMed

See these in context on the Flaxseed monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Keep exploring
Supplement interaction checker › Check any supplement or product against your medications Drug–drug interactions › Check two or more of your medications against each other Browse medications A–Z › Every drug we've checked against herbs & supplements NDC & pricing lookup › Find a drug’s NDCs, packaging and costs Ask a pharmacist › Free, personal answer from our licensed team