Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids which are considered more healthful than saturated fats and have great contribution for our health. Unlike saturated fats, polyunsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature and remain liquid when refrigerated or frozen. They are needed to build cell membranes in the brain and often associated with lower levels of blood cholesterol. Omega 3 fatty acids are classified as essential fatty acids, which mean that our body cannot produce them and, therefore, we must acquire them through our diets. They can be found in fish (such as: salmon, albacore tuna, Sardines, Mackerel, Herring, Rainbow trout), soybean products, walnuts, flaxseed and flaxseed oil, dark green leafy vegetables, and canola oil.
There are three major types of omega-3 fatty acids that should be underlined: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The body partially converts ALA to EPA and DHA. But these fats can also come directly from certain foods, like cold-water fish. DHA is necessary for brain and nerve development, while EPA may contribute in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Omega-3 fatty acids play fundamental role in keeping our body’s optimal health, growth, metabolism, and healthy blood and nerves. There are still many other benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for your health, and here are some of them:
- Control blood clotting.
- Reduce inflammation (act as anti-inflammatory agents). They can help patient with rheumatoid arthritis.
- They may help to protect against cancer, (in particular, breast colon, and prostate cancer).
- Promoting healthy cell membranes by maintaining the fluidity of your cell membranes
- Treatments for high blood pressure.
- Lower levels of depression. They may boost the effects of antidepressants.
- Improve the body’s ability to respond to insulin.
- Reduce the risk of obesity.
- Inhibit thickening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis) by decreasing endothelial cells’ production of a platelet-derived growth factor (the lining of the arteries is composed of endothelial cells).
- Reduce the risk of atherosclerosis (a specific type of arteriosclerosis), also known as coronary artery disease. It is a condition in which an artery wall thickens as a result of the accumulation of fatty materials such as cholesterol. It can restrict blood flow.
Before deciding to take any supplements, you should discuss it with your doctor to make sure you use the right dose and can get the best advantage of them.
Leave a Reply