Getting to Know Omega 3 Fatty Acids
I have heard a lot about the benefits of eating Omega 3 fatty
acids but because a major source is fish oil, which isn't very
appealing, I never looked further into it. But then I watched a
news article on how Omega 3 could prevent some serious diseases
I decided to look into it again.
This article will provide some basic information on Omega 3, to
include, where to get a good source of Omega 3 and the many
health benefits.
Source:
The number one source is fish and the types of fish used to make
the Omega 3 plays an important role. Some of the best fish is
anchovies and sardines. A process called fattening is used to
increase the omega 3 level in the flesh by feeding farmed fish
oil-based feed. An important side note, if you eat plenty of
fish, you will not need omega 3 supplement. And for those
getting their omega 3 fatty acids through fish, a portion of
oily fish once or twice a week is adequate. Other good sources
of Omega 3 fatty acids are hemp oil and walnuts.
Other than taking fish oil capsules, there really aren't too
many other supplemental sources of omega 3 fatty acids.
Health Benefits:
Intake of omega 3 fats, especially from fish, may decrease blood
pressure and thin the blood. Omega 3 fish oils are considered
anti-inflammatory and helpful for arthritis, asthma, depression
and bipolar disease. In some studies Omega 3 relieves both
arthritis pain and inflammation.
It seems the Omega 3 fatty acids found in cold water fish
increase the levels of fatty acids in blood cell membranes.
Studies suggest that individuals at risk for coronary heart
disease benefit from the consumption of omega 3 fatty acids and
fish oil.
Interesting facts:
In one well-known study, rats deprived of omega 3 fats showed
memory loss and their ability to negotiate a maze was
considerably reduced. Interestingly studies have shown that
grass fed, free-range animals produce meat and milk higher in
omega 3 fats than intensively farmed, grain fed animals.
In Conclusion:
Therefore it is important when selecting an omega 3 fish oil
supplement to choose an Omega 3 oil that is both pure and
strong. If you are worried about ingesting to much fat, remember
that saturated fats (bad fats) are solid at room temperature,
while omega 3 fats are liquid at room temperature. Professionals
recommend, a person consuming 2000 calories per day would have
to eat at least 2 grams of omega 3 fats for its beneficial
properties. Before taking Omega 3 consult with a
professional.