Fact Check: Flaxseed oil or fish oil can raise ldl cholesterol

Fact-Check Article: "Flaxseed oil or fish oil can raise LDL cholesterol"

What We Know

The claim that "flaxseed oil or fish oil can raise LDL cholesterol" is contradicted by multiple studies and meta-analyses. Research indicates that both flaxseed oil and fish oil are generally associated with lowering LDL cholesterol levels rather than raising them.

A study comparing the effects of omega-3 and flaxseed oil on serum lipids in hyperlipidemic rats found that both flaxseed oil and omega-3 supplementation decreased levels of cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) compared to a high-fat diet control group (Shahidi et al., 2022).
A meta-analysis of flaxseed interventions indicated that flaxseed consumption significantly reduced both total and LDL cholesterol levels, with more pronounced effects observed in certain populations, such as postmenopausal women (Pan et al., 2009).
The Mayo Clinic also supports the notion that flaxseed can lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels (Mayo Clinic).
While some sources mention that fish oil may have mixed effects on LDL cholesterol, the predominant consensus is that it does not significantly raise LDL levels, and it often raises HDL cholesterol, which is considered beneficial (Dr. Weil).

Analysis

The evidence presented in the studies indicates a clear trend: both flaxseed oil and fish oil are associated with reductions in LDL cholesterol levels. The study by Shahidi et al. (2022) specifically highlights that both oils decreased LDL levels in comparison to a control group on a high-fat diet, suggesting a protective effect against hyperlipidemia (Shahidi et al., 2022).

The meta-analysis by Pan et al. (2009) further supports this by quantifying the cholesterol-lowering effects of flaxseed, showing a reduction in LDL cholesterol levels across various studies, particularly in populations with higher initial cholesterol levels (Pan et al., 2009).

Conversely, while some anecdotal reports and less rigorous studies suggest that fish oil might raise LDL cholesterol in certain contexts, these claims are not widely supported in the scientific literature. For instance, Dr. Weil mentions a study that found a slight increase in LDL cholesterol with fish oil, but this is an exception rather than the rule (Dr. Weil).

Overall, the reliability of the sources cited is high, as they include peer-reviewed studies and reputable health organizations. The consensus across multiple studies suggests that the claim of flaxseed oil or fish oil raising LDL cholesterol is not supported by the current body of evidence.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The claim that flaxseed oil or fish oil can raise LDL cholesterol is not supported by scientific evidence. On the contrary, both flaxseed oil and fish oil have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels in various studies. The majority of credible research indicates that these oils can be beneficial for cardiovascular health by reducing LDL cholesterol and improving overall lipid profiles.