Can You Take Flaxseed Oil and Stearidonic Acid (SDA) Together?

May affect absorption

The short answer

Both SDA and Flaxseed Oil (ALA) are plant-based omega-3 precursors that compete for the same delta-6-desaturase enzyme for conversion to EPA. Co-ingestion may reduce conversion efficiency of both.

How to arrange timing

Separate SDA and Flaxseed Oil by at least 2 hours to optimize enzymatic conversion of both omega-3 precursors.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Walker CG et al., Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids, 2013; Omega-3 precursor competition for desaturase

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.