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All Omega-3’s are not created equal. Flaxseed only contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). You will notice that most sites promoting flaxseed Omega-3’s will give examples of health benefits of the Omega-3’s, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are from fish oils. Then they make statements about flaxseed being high in Omega-3’s. ALA is not readily converted to DHA and EPA after ingesting. Some people lack the ability to convert ALA to DHA/EPA.

From University of Maryland Medical Center

Omega-3 fatty acids

People with either diabetes or schizophrenia may lack the ability to convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the forms more readily used in the body. Therefore, people with these conditions should obtain their omega-3 fatty acids from dietary sources rich in EPA and DHA. Also, individuals with type 2 diabetes may experience increases in fasting blood sugar levels while taking fish oil supplements. If you have type 2 diabetes, only use fish oil supplements under the supervision of a health care provider.

Although studies have found that regular consumption of fish (which includes the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA) may reduce the risk of macular degeneration, a recent study including 2 large groups of men and women found that diets rich in ALA may substantially increase the risk of this disease. More research is needed in this area. Until this information becomes available, it is best for people with macular degeneration to obtain omega-3 fatty acids from sources of EPA and DHA, rather than ALA.
Similar to macular degeneration, fish and fish oil may protect against prostate cancer, but ALA may be associated with increased risk of prostate cancer in men. More research in this area is needed.