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While Omega-3 might sound like something from a cheesy intergalactic movie, it is actually an essential ingredient for your body’s maximum health. Discovered almost 30 years ago, this fatty acid was identified as a key component of fish oil. Fisherman often used oils extracted from fish livers to thwart cold symptoms and to treat sunburn.
As time progressed, science was better able to isolate Omega-3 and establish its purpose within the body. Research concluded that Omega-3 was crucial for proper brain function as well as the health of body cell membranes. Without delay, Omega-3 was quickly proclaimed as one of nature’s super nutrients.
Since its finding, science has continued to uncover many important uses for Omega-3. Besides its primary function of aiding in the maintenance of body processes, Omega-3 is also utilized in the prevention and treatment of many common medical conditions.
ARTHRITIS: As the fisherman found, Omega-3 is an excellent anti-inflammatory. Arthritis patients benefit from its use as it reduces inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
HEART HEALTH: Omega-3 is proven to improve heart healthiness by helping to lower triglycerides and reduce the risk of stroke.
MENTAL CONDITIONS: Individuals who suffer from ADHD, depression, and anorexia nervosa have all responded favorably when their diets were supplemented with Omega-3.
CANCERS: Although research is inconclusive, it is believed that Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of contracting certain types of cancers.
Amazingly, despite our great need for Omega-3, the human body cannot produce it. In order to get this critical nutrient, it must be taken from outside sources. While sources vary in concentration of Omega-3, there are many foods from which to obtain the fatty acid.
FISH OILS: Salmon and Cod liver oil are the earliest known source for acquiring Omega-3. They are also considered to hold the highest concentrate of the fatty acid.
SUPPLEMENTS: Dietary supplements for Omega-3 generally use fish oil and flax oil. Supplements are considered superior to whole fish oils due to the fact that Mercury and other unwanted chemicals are removed.
NUT OIL: Oils derived from walnuts, flaxseeds, and soybeans are considered to be high in Omega-3.
PLANT OILS: Among plant oils, the best sources for Omega-3 are canola, corn and Perilla.
VEGETABLES: Cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and tofu are also good sources.
As with all medications, supplementing with Omega-3 has its risks. There have been numerous known cases of Mercury poisoning associated with the use of fish oils. Mercury is a heavy metal found largely in the ocean. As fish consume organic material, high levels of Mercury are deposited in the liver where the Omega-3’s are stored.
To diminish the possibilities of poisoning, it is best to buy only premium fish oil that has been refined to remove most traces of Mercury or to consume alternative sources of Omega-3.
It is estimated that over half of the world is deficient in Omega-3. With the importance of fatty acids and ease of attaining them, there is no reason anyone should fall behind in this vital nutrient. Omega-3 fatty acids are readily available at most health stores or online for a reasonable price.