Flaxseed oil, rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid, has been investigated for its potential benefits in metabolic diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Several animal studies indicate that flaxseed oil supplementation can reduce liver fat accumulation, improve lipid metabolism, and decrease inflammation and oxidative stress in models of fatty liver disease. These effects are generally attributed to the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids and their ability to modulate lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity.

However, clinical evidence in humans remains limited and inconclusive. A few small human trials suggest that flaxseed or flaxseed oil supplementation may improve some markers of liver function or lipid profile in people with NAFLD, but results are inconsistent and studies are often of low quality or short duration. Most guidelines for NAFLD management do not specifically recommend flaxseed oil due to insufficient robust clinical evidence. Current scientific support is therefore preliminary, with encouraging data from animal research but insufficient high-quality human studies to draw firm conclusions or provide strong recommendations.

In summary, while there is scientific rationale and preclinical evidence supporting the potential benefit of flaxseed oil for fatty liver disease, the quality and quantity of human research is currently limited, justifying a low to moderate evidence rating.