Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Recommended Omega-3 Fatty Acid Dosage
• More About EPA and DHA

Definition and benefits from omega-3 fatty acids

People who are on a diet try to avoid all types of fatty foods in order to attain a quicker change in weight. However, not all fats are bad for the health. One good and beneficial fatty acid is one which is derived from fish and is mostly known as Omega-3 fatty acids.

Fatty fish like mackerel, herring, sardines, tuna and salmon are just a few which contains high concentrations of two important omega-3 fatty acids namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). So, it is recommended to atleast eat fish two times a week. Omega-3 fatty acids are also present in some vegetable oils such as canola, soybean, flaxseed or linseed and olive oil. Some nuts such as the English walnuts recorded also concentrates of this acid.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), omega-3 fatty acids make the heart healthy therefore making it important to people who are at the high risk of cardiovascular disease.

In studies, these fatty acids were proven to lower triglycerides, slow down the hardening of the arteries, lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of sudden death, heart attack, irregular heart beat and stroke. It is also recorded to improve the eye and brain development of infants. It is also highly advised for pregnant mothers to start omega-3 fatty acid intake as soon as possible to ensure healthy pregnancy.

Aside from keeping the heart healthy, omega-3 fatty acids are also proven by doctors and researchers to combat autism, low birth issues and some psychological disorders. It is also beneficial to people who are suffering from:

• Diabetes
• Menstrual cramps
• Asthma
• Burns
• High cholesterol levels
• Arthritis
• Allergies due to inflammation