An interesting piece of research was published recently claiming that 98% of individuals did not have enough omega 3 fatty acids in their diet.
This may have a significant effect on our health as these ‘super-unsaturated’ essential fats have an important anti-inflammatory effect on many health conditions.
They are called ‘essential’ because we cannot make them in the body – they have to come from food but it seems we don’t eat nearly enough of the right things.
What foods contain essential fatty acids?
The best source of DHA and EPA – the active forms of omega 3 – are found in oily fish such as herring, mackerel, anchovies, sardines and salmon, krill (a crustacean), grass-fed meat and dairy and marine algae.
There are plant sources available including nuts, seeds and greens in the form of alpha linoleic acid (ALA) but these require a more complex conversion process to produce the active compounds DHA and EPA so only small amount of plant-source is converted in our body.
There is much documented evidence to show that Omega 3 fats reduce inflammation in autoimmune conditions, cancers, musculoskeletal and hormonal health as well as playing an important role in brain health.
The also synthesise hormone-like substances that regulate blood clotting, body temperature, blood pressure, reproduction and immune function
Why do we need Omega 3 and what role does it play in the body?
- It can help reduce inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Our brains need Omega 3: essential for brain structure and acts as a precursor to neurochemicals and manages inflammation.
- Evidence shows benefits for eye health and hormonal balance.
- It’s anti-inflammatory properties, may be beneficial for CVD health with some evidence of decreased risk of stroke and atherosclerosis.
- Reduces blood pressure in some individual and can decrease levels of triglycerides in the blood.
- May reduce brain plaques associated with dementia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s.
- Boosts brain blood flow to regions important for learning, memory, depression and dementia.
There are several good quality omega 3 fatty acid supplements available.
Tone has been using a good quality Omega 3 fatty acids from a company in Norway who produce arctic fish oils.
They come in the form of a lemon flavoured oil with no fishy aftertaste, which can be taken off the spoon or added to your salads/vegetables etc. They also provide you with a home-test kit so you can monitor your own levels of these important fatty acids. Tone has been using these for some time and feels that she has benefited.
If you would like to read more about these products click on this link:
