Hi Jeff,
according to the following analysis, Blackseed is a substantial source of long-chain omega3 fatty acids: http://docsdrive.com/pdfs/academicjournals/rjmp/0000/18102-18102.pdf
I know that most probably, there is no need to take in EPA/DHA directly, since the body can convert these biologically active forms from ALA. Still, if a cheap and efficient WFPB source was available, supplying them directly certainly wouldn't hurt either: 15-20 grams of seeds contain about 0,5 grams of DHA/EPA combined, extrapolating from the above analysis and assuming a fat content of about 30%. One could just alternate between small daily portions of flaxseed and blackseed to keep all bases covered, while staying perfectly compliant with McDougall guidelines.
However, I wonder how reliable the analysis linked above really is. On the internet, lots of other analyses of blackseed oil are available, and none of them mention DHA/EPA. Maybe the other analyses just didn't test for these substances, because the researchers did not expect to find them there? Or is DHA/EPA testing routinely included in such a procedure?
I would really appreciate your take on this. Given the available evidence, how likely do you consider it that blackseed actually contains significant amounts of DHA/EPA? If it does, do you see any harm in including small portions in one's daily diet, as long as the overall quantity of nuts/seeds remains within the recommended guidelines?
