Can flaxseed oil improve sleep quality?
Aug 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
If poor sleep quality is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, being easily awakened during the night, and relatively mild symptoms, consuming an appropriate amount of flaxseed oil daily may help improve sleep to some extent. The unsaturated fatty acids present in flaxseed oil might assist in regulating the nervous system, potentially reducing minor sleep disturbances. However, it has minimal effect on severe insomnia or sleep problems caused by other underlying medical conditions.
Generally, flaxseed oil may help improve mild sleep disturbances caused by a lack of unsaturated fatty acids, but it has little effect on severe insomnia or sleep problems caused by other underlying conditions. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If poor sleep quality is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings during the night, and the symptoms are relatively mild, consuming an appropriate amount of flaxseed oil in daily diet may aid in regulating the nervous system due to its unsaturated fatty acid content. In such cases, it may slightly improve sleep quality and reduce minor sleep disturbances.
However, for individuals experiencing chronic insomnia, severe difficulty falling asleep, or sleep problems caused by anxiety, illness, or other factors, flaxseed oil cannot address the underlying causes and is unlikely to significantly improve sleep quality. Relying solely on flaxseed oil will not resolve the core issues.
Flaxseed oil should be consumed in moderation and can be combined with dishes such as vegetable salads to preserve its nutritional value. If sleep problems persistently affect daily life, it is important to identify and address the underlying causes.
