Omega-3 “essential” for Good Health
Written By: Dr. Jan McBarren, Duke and The Doctor
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Published - Mar 11, 2011
In recent years, scientists worldwide have conducted clinical trials on the benefits of fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA) and found that omega-3 fatty acids are “essential” for good health. In fact, all three omega fatty acids (omega-3, 6 & 9) are also known as ‘essential fatty acids’ because they are, indeed, essential for life.
Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to support cardiovascular health, lower cholesterol, improve brain function and memory, support joints and arthritis and even elevate moods. Additional studies also suggest that omega-3 fatty acids also help allergies, inflammation, support eye health, anti-aging, relieve skin conditions, and the list is ever-growing. Rivaled only by vitamin D, it’s no wonder why some have labeled omega-3 fatty acids the “wonder supplement” of modern times. Omega-3 fatty acids are so essential for our well-being that many companies are now adding them to our food. They may be found in eggs, cereal, orange juice and even in our pet foods. So, with omega-3 fatty acids readily available, do we still need to supplement them our diets? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’. Our bodies are unable to manufacture omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, the only way we can get them is by diet or supplementation. Omega-3 fatty acids come from a variety of plant and animal sources such as flax seed, chia seeds, hemp, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, as well as some cold water fish like salmon and krill. According to recent article, “Eat More Oily Fish and Be Healthy, Say Food Experts”, eating fish four times a week “gives a major boost to a healthy heart”.