Final answer:
Flaxseed oil typically has a higher concentration of ALA compared to whole flax seeds, as it is a more concentrated source of fatty acids. Whole flax seeds offer other nutrients beneficial for health. Since ALA is an essential fatty acid and a precursor for EPA and DHA, it is important to include it in the diet.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing flax seed and flaxseed oil in terms of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) content, flaxseed oil generally has a higher concentration of ALA since it is extracted from the seeds and is a more concentrated source of fatty acids. However, whole flax seeds also contain ALA, along with additional nutrients such as fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, which are beneficial for health. The American diet tends to have adequate amounts of omega-6 fatty acids like linoleic acid, commonly found in corn and soybean oil, but often lacks sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as ALA. To increase ALA intake, incorporating sources such as nuts, flaxseed, whole grains, legumes, and dark green leafy vegetables into the diet is recommended. Furthermore, ALA is an essential fatty acid that the body cannot produce and must be obtained through diet. It also serves as a precursor for other important omega-3 fatty acids, like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), although the conversion rate is limited, hence direct consumption from sources like fish is beneficial.