The Unparalleled Power of Omega-3s

The Unparalleled Power of Omega-3s
Not all fats are created equal, and fatty acids have a laundry list of benefits to prove it!
Although the words “fatty” and “acid” may not immediately prompt a pleasant connotation, a-linolenic, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic compounds are types of fatty acids with wonderful – and endless – health benefits. Commonly referred to as simply omega-3s, these polyunsaturated chemicals assist the human body in warding off cancer, cardiovascular disease, brain ailments and more. And the good news is that omega-3 fatty acids can be found in all types of food, from fish to flax.
For just a moment, take a good look at yourself: is your skin dry or itchy? Are your nails and hair brittle? Do you regularly experience joint pain, fatigue or depression? No, this isn’t a pharmaceutical commercial, and you don’t necessarily need any medicine to make yourself better. Simply by upping your intake of foods rich in omega-3s, general health can immediately and rapidly improve; doctors and scientists alike are finding that every day issues, from Type 2 diabetes to concentration problems, can be significantly resolved with high omega-3 foods.

Not sure where to begin at the grocery store? If you like seafood, you’re in luck; fish like salmon and halibut are packed with healthy oils. Researchers have also found that the body absorbs omega-3s especially well from fish because the fats are in the form of triglycerides. Walnuts, flaxseed, tofu, soybeans and winter squash are also great picks for loading up on fatty acids.

The list of cardiovascular health benefits from omega-3 goes on and on. High fatty acid foods keep blood from excessively clotting, decrease the risk of arrhythmias (abnormal heartbeats) and lower blood pressure. In addition, these acids reduce inflammation by blocking the production of messenger chemicals known as cytokines. By stimulating the secretion of leptin, the hormone that regulates appetite, omega-3s also help the body respond to insulin and maintain a healthy metabolism and weight.

In the human body, healthy cell membranes are vital to overall well-being. Cells that cannot adequately hold water and important nutrients are believed to lose communication with other cells and often promote tumor growth. Therefore, maintaining the integrity and fluidity of cell membranes is key; while saturated and hydrogenated fats produce subpar membranes, omega-3 fats create membranes with high levels of fluidity. Furthermore, fatty acids affect cell growth by activating the release of ceramide – a compound that contains the human tumor suppressor gene p21. Several studies have shown that omega-3s play an active role in preventing cancer, particularly breast cancer, in both humans and animals.

Still not convinced? Researchers have also found that fatty acids may relieve some symptoms of several types of mental and behavioral problems such as ADHD, Alzheimer’s and bipolar disorder. Arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus and Huntington’s disease also top the list of omega-3 targets.

If you’re looking for a quick way to get your daily dose of omega-3s, then consider supplements like softgel vitamins (always check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements). Even small amounts of fatty acids have been shown to boost overall health, so take an extra helping of cauliflower or scallops with dinner tonight. Your body and your brain will thank you!