Omega 3 Fatty Acids - A Critical Role in Your Diet
Research has shown that a regular intake of foods containing Omega 3 EFA’s helps fight against Heart Attacks, Cancer, Depression and Rheumatoid Arthritis. The best sources of Omega 3 are found in Oily Fish such as Salmon, Herring, Mackerel, Tuna and Sardines. These fatty acids benefit people of all ages, right from pregnancy to old age and a regular intake of foods containing these is essential.
Pregnancy
During the third trimester the baby is developing its brain, nervous system and retinas. Studies have shown that a regular intake of fish oil is essential in the development of these systems. Therefore pregnant and nursing mothers should aim to eat 2 portions of oily fish per week.
Young Children
Research into the effects of omega 3 fish oils on the development of young children is still in the early stages but the initial findings are very encouraging especially with regards to helping combat such conditions as hyperactivity, dyslexia and dysphasia.
There is also evidence that a regular intake of these essential fatty acids helps improve concentration at school.
Research by organisations such as the
American Heart Organisation
and the
British Heart Foundation
indicates that eating foods such as Salmon helps to maintain a balanced cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of heart attacks.
There is also documented evidence proposing that a regular intake of Omega 3 fish oil whilst not curing Psoriasis, does reduce the discomfort of red, itchy, flaking skin and lessens the area of the body affected.
Although studies have shown that people who eat lots of fish appear to have a lower rate of some cancers and tests performed in Labs would seem to support the theory that omega-3 polyunsaturates reduce cancer risk, there is still much research to do but the results so far look very encouraging.
There is some evidence to suggest when fish oils were added to a restricted calorie diet the resultant weight loss was greater than when omitted.
As you get older omega 3 fatty acids can help relieve the pain of Rheumatoid Arthritis and helps to keep joints supple. - vital if you do a lot of sport or exercise.
Of course we all know that sometimes it’s just not possible to eat enough fish in order to maintain a healthy level of Omega 3’s. If this is your concern then there are plenty of supplements on the health food market that can cater for you.
The American Heart Association - article on the health benefits of taking Omega 3 fatty acid supplements, particularly people with cardiovascular disease or high tryglycerides.
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