We
have all probably heard the above words spoken in terms of diet, health
and fitness. So, what exactly are Omega 3’s or Essential Fatty
Acids? Do we really need to supplement them in our diets or can we get
them from our food? I hope to answer some of these questions in this
article.
Fatty acids are the basic building blocks of which fats and oils are
composed. Our bodies do need fat, contrary to popular belief, but it
must be the right kind. The fatty acids that are necessary for health
and that cannot be made by the body are called essential fatty acids
(EFAs).
Essential fatty acids have many desirable effects on the body. They
improve the skin and hair, reduce blood pressure, aid in the prevention
of arthritis, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and reduce
the risk of blood clot formation. They are also beneficial for cardiovascular
disease, eczema and psoriasis. They are found in high concentrations
in the brain, so they aid in the transmission of nerve impulses and
are needed for the normal development of the brain. An article in the
Surgical Neurology Journal did a study on how Omega 3 supplementation
may help relieve both neck and low back pain. It was quoted that “Omega
3 EFA fish oil supplements appear to be a safer alternative to NSAIDs
for treatment of nonsurgical neck or back pain in this selective group.”
Every living cell in the body needs essential fatty acids. There are
two basic categories of EFAs, designated omega 3 and omega 6. Omega
3 EFAs are found in fresh deepwater fish, fish oil, canola oil, flaxseed
oil and walnut oil. Omega 6 EFAs are found primarily in raw nuts, seeds,
and legumes, and in unsaturated vegetable oils, such as borage oil,
grape seed oil, and primrose oil.
The daily requirement for essential fatty acids is satisfied by an amount
equivalent to 10-20 percent of total caloric intake. As we can see,
it is so important to add these supplements to our daily regimen. When
you decrease inflammation in the body, you will see aches and pains
start to disappear. EFAs are a great source of anti-inflammatory mediators.
Please
contact the doctor if you would like references used in this article.
