Essential Fatty Acids cont.
In this issue, We will continue our discussion of Essential Faty Acids.
Dietary intake of omega 3 essential fatty acids is woefully lacking all around the world. A new study reviews the multiple mechanisms by which omega 3 fatty acids, especially DHA, can combat the obesity epidemic. It is now recognized that the health of your white adipose tissue combined with the health of your liver are of vital importance to the metabolic efficiency that enables you to metabolize calories and not gain weight. In what might be called “nutritional elegance” the omega 3 fatty acids are vital to multiple aspects of fat metabolism and a lack of them drastically impairs your liver and white adipose tissue from functioning normally.
Health Benefits
Clinical studies suggest that Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial in treating a variety of health conditions. It is highly recommended for those who want to increase their Omega-3 intake through ingesting foods or taking supplements to do so only on the advice of their family physician or naturopathic doctor.
Protection from heart attacks: Omega-3 fatty acids lower blood triglyceride levels therefore reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Rheumatoid arthritis: Research has proven that regular intake of Omega-3 fish oil supplements reduces the stiffness and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
High blood pressure: Regular intake of Omega-3 has a significant effect on those suffering from high blood pressure.
Cancer: Omega-3 fatty acids have been beneficial in treating many forms of cancer, including colon, breast and prostate cancer. These essential acids stop the spread of cancerous cells into healthy blood cells.
Anti-inflammatory: Oil supplements have anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful in boosting the immune system. Ulcerative colitis patients benefit greatly by Omega-3 fish oil supplements.
Depression and Psychosis: Many mental health conditions, including depression, psychosis, and bipolar disorder, can be effectively alleviated with Omega-3 fish oil supplements.
Childhood Disorders: Dyspraxia, dyslexia, ADD, ADHD and some compulsive disorders have been greatly improved through the use of Omega-3 fish oil.
Diabetes: Individuals who have diabetes tend to have high triglyceride and low HDL levels. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil can help lower triglycerides and apoproteins (diabetes markers), and increase HDL, so people with diabetes can benefit from eating foods or taking supplements that contain EPA and DHA.
Alzheimer’s Disease: A study that was published in the March 2005 issue of The Journal of Neuroscience states that Omega-3 fatty acids may protect the body from the accumulation of the protein that is believed to be linked to Alzheimer’s. This study specifically investigated DHA and although the results are not conclusive, they are encouraging.