You have noticed an increased presence of the words "omega-3 fatty acids" on more and more food labels when you're at the shopping market. It's mainly because people are recognizing the positive health benefits of this magical acid molecule, and are now adding it to many food products such mayonnaise, milk, bread, cereal, margarine, salad dressing, juice, soy milk, yogurt, waffles, cookies, frozen pizza, and pasta (as well as canned fish of course).

But you don't need to go out of your way spending a lot more money to get this healthy supplement, as it is found naturally in both fish and in flax seeds. In fact, flaxseed oil is very high in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), as well as Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA), the same same beneficial compounds found in fish oil.

Some of the obvious benefits of flax seed oil are its effects on brain function, mood and behavior. DHA is one of the building blocks for brain growth and development, and studies have shown that including things such as flaxseed oil in your diet can improve the body's ability to repair brain damage and stimulate neuronal activity. And of course, it is widely known now that omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to the reduction of risk of coronary heart disease, as well as reducing clogged arteries and improving membrane walls.

It may not always be possible to cook or bake with flaxseed oil (depending on if you can find the right flax seed oil recipe!), but if you should decide to shop at the supermarket looking for other products claiming to have the same positive benefits of flaxseed oil (or fish oil), be sure to read the labels carefully, for they're not all going to have the same qualities as natural, healthy flax seeds.