Can flaxseed oil lower cholesterol?

Aug 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Tian Hongbo

Introduction

If cholesterol levels are only mildly elevated, replacing some animal fats with flaxseed oil in daily diet, along with maintaining a low-salt, low-fat diet and regular exercise, may help regulate blood lipid levels. The unsaturated fatty acids contained in flaxseed oil can assist in lowering cholesterol and produce a certain degree of improvement. However, for cases of severely elevated cholesterol or when relying solely on flaxseed oil alone, its effectiveness may be limited.

Generally, flaxseed oil can play a certain role in reducing mild cholesterol elevation when combined with a healthy diet. However, it may have limited effectiveness in cases of severe cholesterol elevation or when used as the sole intervention. If concerned, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If cholesterol levels are mildly elevated, replacing part of animal fats with flaxseed oil in daily diet, along with maintaining a low-salt and low-fat diet and regular exercise, may help lower cholesterol. The unsaturated fatty acids contained in flaxseed oil can assist in regulating blood lipids, thereby providing some improvement.

In cases of significantly elevated cholesterol levels, or when flaxseed oil is consumed without adjusting other dietary habits or undergoing standard medical treatment, its effectiveness is limited and cannot replace the effects of medication. In such situations, it may fail to effectively lower cholesterol and could potentially lead to further increases in cholesterol levels due to delayed intervention.

Flaxseed oil should be consumed in moderation, avoiding high-temperature cooking to preserve its nutritional content. If cholesterol levels remain persistently elevated, comprehensive measures should be taken in conjunction with medical evaluations and under professional guidance. Relying solely on dietary interventions while neglecting standard medical treatment is not advised.

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