Omega 3 Fatty Acids Have Many Health Benefits
Proper nourishment is crucial to each facet of our lives and it is vital to be aware of nutrients other than the usual vitamins and minerals as well as the ways in which they affect our wellbeing. An extremely significant set of nutrients are the omega 3 fatty acids, which serve as essential building components for our neural cells and cerebral tissues.
You can find omega 3 acids mainly in fish such as cod, mackerel, and salmon. Fish liver oils also carry omega 3, but you can't depend on fish oil for your sole source of the nutrient because there is too much vitamin A present. The fleshy portions of the fish contain little or no vitamin A, so they are a better choice.
Salmon is not only delicious but is a fish that contains an extremely high level of omega 3. Three to five servings a week are easy to include in a healthy diet and will provide you with all the omega 3 that you need. While not as rich as fish, walnuts can provide an alternative source for people on a vegetarian diet.
Consuming omega 3 fatty acids in food or as supplements produces the benefit of lowering cholesterol levels. In addition, triglyceride levels are reduced, another link in the chain that helps keep your heart and cardiovascular system in top shape. These fatty acids are sometimes referred to as "super unsaturated" fats and they are good for you, as long as you don't overdo it.
One other benefit of omega 3 from fish and salmon or as a nutritional supplement is that it makes the platelets less "sticky" and helps to prevent unwanted clotting of the blood. ( It is recommended that those persons taking blood thinners or any other prescription medications should first check with their doctor before taking any supplements.) Studies have shown that it decreases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Fish oil capsules are the most common form of supplements for omega 3 fatty acids. The fatty acids are believed to have strong anti inflammatory effects in the body and are now being studied to combat the pain and disability of migraine headaches. Some studies have shown as many as 87% of patients getting migraine relief from these supplements.
We all know how important it is to get good nutrition. But we need to look beyond the basic building blocks of vitamins and minerals at other essential nutrients. One of these is omega 3 fatty acids. It is mainly found in coldwater fish like cod, mackerel, and salmon. Straight fish oil contains too much vitamin A to be a good source for omega acids. Three to five servings per week of salmon are the best source, but if you are a vegetarian you can eat walnuts. Omega acids are good for your overall health, and can even prevent blood clots and provide migraine relief.
- Michael Byrd
