1 serving (14 grams) contains 124 calories, 0.0 grams of protein, 14.0 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
1980.2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 224 g | 287% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.1 g | 100% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 151.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0 g | 0% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% | |
| Sugars | 0 g | ||
| protein | 0.2 g | 0% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2.2 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Potassium | 0 mg | 0% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Flaxseed oil
Flaxseed oil is derived from the seeds of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), a crop cultivated globally with origins in the Middle East. It is commonly used in Western and Mediterranean cuisines, especially in salad dressings and smoothies. Nutritionally, flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based fatty acid critical for heart health. It also contains small amounts of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, but lacks significant protein, fiber, or carbohydrates due to its extraction process. Flaxseed oil is valued for its anti-inflammatory properties and its potential role in supporting cardiovascular health. However, as a delicate oil, it is typically consumed raw rather than used in high-heat cooking to avoid nutrient degradation.
Health Benefits
- Promotes heart health due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, primarily alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
- Supports skin health with vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from oxidative damage.
- May aid in reducing inflammation, thanks to its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Flaxseed oil should be stored in a cool, dark place, ideally in the refrigerator, and used within 1-2 months after opening to prevent rancidity. Avoid exposing it to heat or light.
Common Questions About Flaxseed oil Nutrition
What are the main nutritional components of flaxseed oil?
Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), with 7,196 mg per tablespoon (15 ml). It contains no protein or carbohydrates and provides approximately 120 calories per tablespoon. It’s also a source of small amounts of vitamin E, which supports antioxidant functions.
Is flaxseed oil suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?
Yes, flaxseed oil is an excellent choice for a keto or low-carb diet because it contains zero carbohydrates and is composed entirely of fats, primarily healthy unsaturated fats. Its high omega-3 content also supports the anti-inflammatory goals of such diets.
What are the health benefits and concerns of consuming flaxseed oil?
Flaxseed oil is known for supporting heart health due to its high omega-3 fatty acid content, which can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. However, excessive consumption may lead to digestive issues, and heating the oil can degrade its beneficial nutrients, so it’s best used cold.
What is the recommended portion size for flaxseed oil?
A typical serving size of flaxseed oil is 1 tablespoon (15 ml) per day. This amount provides an adequate dose of omega-3 fatty acids for most adults without overloading on calories and fat. Always consult a healthcare professional for personal recommendations.
How does flaxseed oil compare to olive oil in terms of nutrients and usage?
Compared to olive oil, flaxseed oil is much higher in omega-3 fatty acids (7,196 mg per tablespoon vs. around 100 mg in olive oil). However, it lacks the monounsaturated fats and polyphenols abundant in olive oil. Flaxseed oil should not be heated, making it better suited for salad dressings or drizzling, while olive oil can be used for cooking.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Flaxseed oil DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
