Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids, found naturally in a variety of foods, are essential to reducing the negative effects of many diseases. In fact, they may offer limited protection against certain diseases as well.
Omega 3, which is polyunsaturated, is obtained through the normal diet. Although particular food groups may contain more Omega 3 than others, maintaining a balanced diet of natural foods ensures a sufficient intake of Omega 3.
Specifically, fish, including salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and lake trout, are high in levels of Omega 3. Unfortunately, due to the pollution of our waterways, they are also high in mercury content, and therefore, should be kept to a minimum in the weekly diet.
A variety of fruit juices and fortified bread also contain high levels of Omega 3 and should be included in our diet on a daily basis. Other foods, including walnuts, flaxseed, canola, and soybeans, contain a substance that breaks down into Omega 3. Therefore, including these foods in the weekly diet is highly recommended.
Individuals who do not maintain a balance of fresh and natural food products in their diet, but rather, rely on prepackaged and processed foods, may benefit from taking an Omega 3 supplement. Processed foods contain less or no Omega 3 fatty acids. Subsequently, the body may become deficient in Omega 3.
Omega 3 is generally present in every cell of the body, specifically, in the membranes of the cells. Omega 3 helps to regulate the biological functions of the human body. A healthy heart, good brain function, and healthy cholesterol levels require Omega 3 fatty acids.
Furthermore, Omega 3 fatty acids may provide some protection from various diseases. Although definitive studies still need to be conducted, some evidence has been offered that Omega 33 decreases the occurrence of arrhythmias, slows down and reduces the progression of atherosclerosis, and minimally or slightly lowers the blood pressure.
Omega 3 fatty acids, available naturally or in supplemental forms, are essential to good health. For a healthy life, include foods providing Omega 3 in your diet on a regular basis.
