By Dr Theron Hutton MD
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that is essential for human health. They are known for their numerous health benefits, which include reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and supporting brain function.
One of the main health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids is their ability to reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to a variety of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules (1).
Omega-3s are also important for heart health. They can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, and decrease the risk of developing heart disease (2). Omega-3s may also help to lower triglycerides, which are a type of fat found in the blood that can increase the risk of heart disease (3).
In addition to their anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects, omega-3s are also important for brain function. They are essential for the development and function of the brain and have been shown to improve memory, reduce the risk of cognitive decline, and reduce the risk of developing neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (4).
There are several sources of omega-3 fatty acids, including fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and plant oils. Some examples of fatty fish include salmon, sardines, and herring. If you don't eat fish, you can also get your omega-3s from supplements, such as fish oil or algae oil.
Stay in the line. In the future I will post about sourcing high-quality fish oil and omega three supplements. Are you hooked?
Calder, P. C. (2013). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and inflammation. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids, 88(5), 389-395.
Mozaffarian, D., Wu, J. H., & de Oliveira Otto, M. C. (2014). Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease: effects on risk factors, molecular pathways, and clinical events. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 64(20), 2295-2311.
Harris, W. S. (2013). Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease: a review of the effect of EPA and DHA on lipoproteins, inflammation, and endothelial function. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 113(10), 1468-1474.
Yurko-Mauro, K., McCarthy, D., Rom, D., Nelson, E. B., Ryan, A. S., Blackwell, A., & Salem, N. Jr. (2010). Beneficial effects of docosahexaenoic acid on cognition in age-related cognitive decline. Alzheimer's & Dementia, 6(6), 456-464.
American Heart Association. (n.d.). Fish and Omega-3s. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/fats/fish-and-omega-3s