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Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential omega-3 fatty acid found in nuts such as walnuts. It is necessary for normal human growth and development.
Alpha-linolenic acid is thought to decrease the risk of heart disease by helping to maintain normal heart rhythm and pumping. It might also reduce blood clots. Common dietary sources include vegetable oils such as flaxseed and canola oil, as well as red meat and dairy products.
Alpha-linolenic acid is most commonly used for diseases of the heart and blood vessels, such as hardening of the arteries, heart disease, and high blood pressure. It is also used for other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
You have probably heard a lot about other omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA, which are found in fish oil. Alpha-linolenic acid may not have the same benefits as EPA or DHA. Be careful not to confuse alpha-linolenic acid with these other omega-3 fatty acids.
- Hyperlipidemia. Clinical research suggests that alpha-linolenic acid does not lower lipid levels in adults with hyperlipidemia.
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- Atherosclerosis. Some research suggests that increasing dietary alpha-linolenic acid intake may decrease atherosclerosis.
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- Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is unclear if alpha-linolenic acid is beneficial in patients with ADHD.
Login for details - Cardiovascular disease (CVD). Population research has found that increased dietary intake of alpha-linolenic acid may have some benefit for CVD, but results from clinical research are generally less positive.
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- Cognitive function. It is unclear if oral alpha-linolenic acid improves cognitive function in healthy adults.
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- Depression. It is unclear if oral alpha-linolenic acid is beneficial in patients with depression.
Login for details - Diabetes. It is unclear if oral alpha-linolenic acid is beneficial in patients with diabetes.
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- Hypertension. Some research suggests that increasing dietary alpha-linolenic acid may decrease the risk of hypertension.
Login for details - Kidney transplant. Observational research suggests that alpha-linolenic acid is not beneficial after a kidney transplant, and may actually increase the risk of mortality.
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- Prostate cancer. There is contradictory evidence about the role of alpha-linolenic acid in prostate cancer.
Login for details - Pneumonia. It is unclear if dietary alpha-linolenic acid reduces the risk for pneumonia.
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- Respiratory tract infections. It is unclear if oral alpha-linolenic acid is beneficial for reducing the incidence of respiratory tract infections in children.
Login for details - Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is unclear if oral alpha-linolenic acid is beneficial in patients with RA.
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- Ulcerative colitis. Login for details
When taken by mouth: Alpha-linolenic acid is likely safe for most adults when used in amounts found in foods. But keep in mind, it is high in calories and may cause weight gain if consumed in excess. There isn't enough reliable information to know if it is safe to use as a medicine.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Alpha-linolenic acid is likely safe in amounts found in food. But not enough is known about the safety of alpha-linolenic acid during pregnancy and breast-feeding when used in higher amounts than those typically found in foods. Stay on the safe side and avoid alpha-linolenic acid supplements.Kidney transplant: Consuming large amounts of alpha-linolenic acid might increase the risk for death after a kidney transplant. Until more is known, avoid alpha-linolenic acid supplements.
Prostate cancer. Alpha-linolenic acid might increase the chance of getting prostate cancer. Until more is known, do not take alpha-linolenic acid supplements if you already have prostate cancer or are at high risk for getting prostate cancer.
There are no known interactions with medications. Before taking this product, talk with your health professional if you take any medications.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
Alpha-linolenic acid is an essential fatty acid. It's found in nuts, vegetable oils, red meat, and dairy. It's recommended that adult females consume 1.1 grams daily, and adult males consume 1.6 grams daily to maintain adequate nutrition. When pregnant, 1.4 grams should be consumed daily, and when breastfeeding, 1.3 grams should be consumed daily. Recommended amounts for children depend on age. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.
Acide Alpha-Linolénique, Ácido Alfa Linolénico, Acide Gras Essentiel, ALA, Acide Linolénique, Acide Gras N3, Acide Gras Oméga 3, Acide Gras Polyinsaturé Oméga 3, Acide Gras Polyinsaturé N3, Essential Fatty Acid, Linolenic Acid, LNA, N-3 Fatty Acid, N-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid, Omega 3, Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Omega-3, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid.
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