Omega-3 are fatty acids that are essentially important for human health, even though the body is not equipped to make them. The only way to obtain these fatty acids is through food and natural supplements. Omega-3 can be found in nut oils, plants, fish and other seafood including, but not limited to krill and algae. These fatty acids play a major role in the function of the human brain as well as normal development and growth.

They have seen a recent growth in popularity due to the fact that they may lower the risk of heart disease. Research has shown that these fatty acids are, in fact, able to reduce inflammation (swelling) and can help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis, cancer and heart disease.

Omega-3 is important in brain memory

and performance as well as behavioral function. Without getting enough Omega-3 fatty acids from their mother during pregnancy children can become at risk to develop nerve and vision problems.

Omega 6 Foods - Omega 3 Vs Omega 6

Omega-6 fatty acids are an essential mineral for brain functionality and natural growth/development and it can only be attained through the consumption of certain foods, which include (these have healthy levels): Poultry, Whole Grains, Avocado, Eggs and most Oatmeals. Avoid consuming too much as it very unhealthy to reach certain levels of Omega 6 since it promotes inflammation. Soybeans, Nuts and Seeds, Tofu and different oils are all really high in Omega 6 - Omega 3 fights inflammation making it essential to maintain a healthy balance between the two fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency can causes numerous symptoms including poor memory, dry skin, depression, fatigue and poor circulation. It is important to have a balanced diet of these fatty acids, they help to reduce inflammation. Although most evidence points toward lowering the risk of heart disease, Omega-3 has been known to be used for a variety of uses including:

Here is some interesting and beneficial information on Omega 3 from umm.edu to really give you some perspective:

Precautions to taking omega-3 supplements:

Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, you should only take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider (like a doctor).

Omega-3 fatty acids should be used cautiously by people who bruise easily (I’ve got no idea why), have a bleeding disorder, or take blood thinning medications including warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), or aspirin. High doses of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding, even in people without a history of bleeding disorders — and even in those who are not taking other medications.

Fish oil can cause gas, bloating, belching, and diarrhea (Hhmm… ). Time release preparations may reduce these side effects, however.

It is important to have the proper ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 (another essential fatty acid) in the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation, and most omega-6 fatty acids tend to promote inflammation. The typical American diet tends to contain 14 – 25 times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids, which many nutritionally oriented physicians consider to be way too high on the omega-6 side.

High Cholesterol (those with cholesterol problems)

Numerous studies have concluded that fish oil supplements can help reduce the triglyceride levels in the body. Walnuts, which have a high concentration of LNA (an Omega-3 fatty acid type) have been known to actually
lower total triglycerides and cholesterol in individuals with abysmally high cholesterol levels.

High Blood Pressure

Numerous studies show that fish oil supplements can actually lower blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. Clinical studies involving fish oil supplements shows that taking over three grams of fish oil everyday can reduce the blood pressure in an individual, who is suffering from a case of untreated hypertension.

People with either diabetes or schizophrenia may lack the ability to convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the forms more readily used in the body. People with these conditions should be sure to get enough EPA and DHA from their diets. Also, people with type 2 diabetes may experience increases in fasting blood sugar levels while taking fish oil supplements. If you have type 2 diabetes, use fish oil supplements only under the supervision of a health care provider.

Fish and fish oil may protect against prostate cancer, but some suggest that ALA may be associated with increased risk of prostate cancer in men. More research in this area is needed.

Some fish may contain potentially harmful contaminants, such as heavy metals (including mercury), dioxins, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). For sport caught fish, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that pregnant or nursing women eat no more than a single 6 ounce meal per week, and young children less than 2 ounces per week. For farm raised, imported, or marine fish, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that pregnant or nursing women and young children avoid eating types with higher levels of mercury (such as mackerel, shark, swordfish, or tilefish), and eat up to 12 ounces per week of other fish types.

Buy fish oil from a reputable source that tests to make sure there is no mercury or pesticide residues in its products. Umm.edu

Diabetes

Persons who suffer from diabetes are known to have higher levels of triglyceride and lower HDL levels. Omega-3 fatty acids can in fact lower triglycerides and raise HDL. Who would have thought that simply eating can help people with diabetes?

Omega-3 fatty acids have numerous health benefits and contribute largely to the balanced nutrition of the human body. This is all the more reason to maintain a healthy or at least a balanced diet. Other elements of illnesses that Omega-3 fatty acids can help with include but are not limited to: Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, osteoporosis, asthma, skin disorders, menstrual pain, macular degeneration, breast cancer and prostate cancer. There are Omega-3 supplements available that are free of heavy metals such as lead, mercury or cadmium. Also available are fish oil capsules that can be taken to give an individual the proper nutrition they need, but as a caution, most must stay refrigerated. There is no well known dosage for children under the age of eighteen, even though fatty acid is used in some infant formulas. Adults should not consume more than three grams daily.

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