Which is better, flaxseed or fish oil?

When asked the question, Celeste Robb-Nicholson M.D, editor and chief of Harvard Women's Health Watch answered that "Fish in the diet is generally preferred."

Source: Of the omega-3s that lower blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels, amongst other benefits for heart health, EPA and DHA are found mainly in seafood while ALA comes from plants such as flaxseed, soybean, and walnut.

The American Heart Association recommends at least two 4-ounce servings per week of EPA and DHA rich fish such as anchovies, halibut, mackerel, salmon, sardine, and tuna. For people who can't or won't eat fish, plant-source ALA provides a reasonable alternative.