Flaxseed oil and multiple sclerosis: why plant-based omega-3s matter

A growing body of research highlights the powerful link between omega-3 fatty acids and multiple sclerosis (MS). For decades, scientists have suspected that omega-3s may play a key role in both the development and progression of MS.

Early evidence came from Dr. Roy Swank’s landmark research in Norway, which observed that regions with high fish consumption, and therefore higher intake of omega-3s, had significantly lower MS rates. Since then, large population studies and several clinical trials have continued to suggest that boosting omega-3 intake may lower MS risk and slow disease progression.

Plant-based omega-3 (ALA) vs. fish oil: what the research shows

A major question in MS nutrition research has been which type of omega-3 fatty acids is most beneficial. The HOLISM study, conducted by the Neuroepidemiology Unit at the University of Melbourne, provided groundbreaking insights: plant-based omega-3s were strongly associated with better health outcomes in people with MS when compared to fish oil.

This aligns with the Overcoming MS Program’s long-standing recommendation to favour flaxseed oil, the richest natural source of the plant-based omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

Despite this evidence, many people continue to rely on fish oil supplements. However, new high-quality research from Norway and Harvard University strengthens the case for choosing flaxseed oil over fish oil for MS protection and symptom management.

New evidence: flaxseed oil and reduced risk of developing multiple sclerosis

Data from nearly 175,000 participants in the long-running US Nurses’ Health Study revealed a striking finding: those who consumed the highest levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids had a one-third lower risk of developing MS.

But the most important discovery was the role of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the omega-3 found in abundance in flaxseed oil. Individuals with the highest ALA intake had a nearly 40% lower risk of MS.

Crucially, the omega-3s found in fish oil, EPA and DHA, were not associated with reduced MS risk.

These results reinforce HOLISM’s earlier findings: flaxseed oil, not fish oil, is linked to better MS outcomes, including:

• less disability
• fewer relapses
• improved quality of life
• reduced fatigue
• reduced depression

Researchers believe this difference may be due to the poor quality and instability of many fish oil products, which can easily become rancid. In contrast, flaxseed oil from reputable suppliers tends to be fresher, higher quality, and more effective.

Flaxseed oil for MS prevention: a key supplement for high-risk individuals

For people with a family history of MS, the latest research suggests that vitamin D and flaxseed oil supplementation together may offer the best chance of lowering disease risk.

This makes flaxseed oil not just helpful for those already diagnosed with MS, but also a powerful preventive nutrient for individuals at increased risk.

Nutritional benefits of flaxseed oil for multiple sclerosis

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil provide far more than just omega-3s. They deliver:

• lignans (antioxidants that reduce inflammation)
• dietary fibre
• high concentrations of ALA
• cholesterol-lowering properties
• support for cardiovascular health
• protection against inflammatory diseases

These nutrients work synergistically to reduce harmful cholesterol, support heart health, and combat inflammation – an essential factor in MS healing and symptom control.

How flaxseed oil helps people with MS: mechanisms and health benefits

Professor George Jelinek’s research shows that daily flaxseed oil supplementation can reduce MS relapse rates by up to two-thirds. Its benefits come from multiple biological pathways:

1. Structural Support for Nerve Cells

ALA from flaxseed oil helps build and repair cell membranes, improving overall cellular health.

2. Reduced Inflammation Through Immune Regulation

Flaxseed oil influences immune signalling, helping to dampen inflammatory responses that drive MS progression.

3. Protection and Nourishment of the Myelin Sheath

ALA supports the maintenance and repair of myelin, the protective coating around nerve fibres that is damaged in MS.

Together, these effects help slow MS progression, reduce relapse frequency, and improve day-to-day symptoms.

The benefits of flaxseed oil for MS

Our bodies can’t produce omega-3s naturally, which means that without supplementation, most of us aren’t getting enough. 

Deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids can relate to MS in the following ways:

• Cognitive decline
• Immune dysfunction
• Tingling sensations
• Tissue inflammation
• Coordination difficulties 
• Family and friends may notice changes in your behaviour

Scientific research has found that flaxseed oil is more beneficial than fish oil supplementation and that is why the Overcoming MS recommendation is for flaxseed oil. A tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains about 1.8 grams of plant omega-3s. Your bottle of flaxseed oil always needs to be kept cold for maximum nutritional value and you must never heat it. You can take it neat by the spoonful, stir it into porridge, mix it in a smoothie or use in the place of olive oil over salads and roasted vegetables. 

We recommend that you need to be taking 20-40 mls (two tablespoons) of flaxseed oil per day.

Why people with MS should take flaxseed oil daily

Based on decades of research and clinical evidence, flaxseed oil is one of the most powerful natural supplements for people with multiple sclerosis. Its unique ability to reduce inflammation, protect nerve health, and improve long-term outcomes makes it a cornerstone of MS-friendly nutrition.

In our view, everyone with MS should be taking flaxseed oil every day, not only for symptom management but also for long-term neurological protection.