What You Need To Know About Omega-3 Fatty Acid Benefits
At first glance, its hard to believe that a nutrient with the word fatty linked to it can be of any real benefit
. The fact is, omega-3 fatty acid benefits are real and numerous. It is considered among the essential fatty acids that make up the necessary nutritional components to sustain properly functioning systems.
At the molecular level, these essential fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory properties that help maintain optimal function of our musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and immune systems. The two main types of omega-3 fatty acids are the long chain types; docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These are found almost exclusively in seafood.
The third component is of the short chain type, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), is plant-based. The body is able to convert ALA into the more important DHA and EPA but a lot gets wasted in the process.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid DHA
DHA is vital to growth and development of the fetal brain. Its also a requirement in maintaining proper brain function in adults. DHA is the active component in fish oil that reduces triglycerides in the blood thus significantly lowering the risk of thrombosis (blood clots) and prevents cardiac arrhythmias.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid EPA
EPA is an essential fatty acid that has shown to be integral in controlling inflammation and plays an active role in mitigating mood disorders and depression.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Food Sources
* Fish: cold water ocean fish found in deep waters such as mackerel, tuna, sardines, anchovies, bluefish and herring, contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon and lake trout also contain high levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
* Flaxseed: is a rich source of ALA which the body needs to convert to DHA and EPA. ALA is abundant in canola oil, soybeans, soybean oil, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin seed oil, purslane, and walnuts.
* Vegetables: raw radish seed sprouts, broccoli, spinach, and grape leaves all comprise healthy levels of omega-3 fatty acids to benefit the body.
The omega-3 fatty acid benefits have been documented in the following disorders and diseases:
* Rheumatoid arthritis: Omega-3 fatty acid benefits arthritis sufferers as it has been shown to enhance the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory medications. It also functions to reduce joint pain and stiffness.
* Heart Health: There is a correlation between consuming omega-3 fatty acids and the reduction of cardiac arrhythmias. People who have had a heart attack, then begin a regime of essential fatty acid consumption, significantly cut their risk of suffering additional attacks. Omega-3 fatty acids also seem to considerably reduce the chance of stroke.
* Depression and mood disorders: People who regularly consume foods or supplements that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids demonstrate a lower propensity toward depression and mood swings. Omega-3 fatty acids also serve to facilitate the efficacy of anti-depressant medication.
* Triglycerides (blood fat): DHA alone has shown to diminish elevated levels of triglycerides in the blood. This significantly lowers the overall risk of heart disease leading to death.
* Prenatal health: pregnant women who regularly take omega-3 fatty acids during gestation can boost their own overall health as well as that of the fetus. Studies have verified that DHA enhances brain and retinal development in infants.
by: David J Kamau
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