Few Things About Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential for the proper functioning of the body. The omega-3 fatty acid contains EPA and DHA, easily found in seafood, such as fatty fish (e.g., salmon, tuna, and trout) and shellfish (e.g., crab, mussels, and oysters).

Another form of omega-3, called ALA, is found in some vegetable oils (e.g., canola and soy). Omega-3s are also available as dietary supplements; for example, fish oil supplements contain EPA and DHA, and flaxseed oil supplements contain ALA.

How Omega 3 Fatty Acid Helps Your Health?

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential fatty acids. They are necessary for human health, but the body can’t make them. You have to get them through food and supplements. Here are some of the benefits of eating Omega 3-s.

Benefits Rheumatoid Arthritis –

Omega-3 supplements have anti-inflammatory effects and seem to boost the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory drugs. Moreover, Omega 3 fatty acid available in fish oil supplements benefit rheumatoid arthritis by reducing NSAIDs use. It also curbs stiffness and joint pains.

• Reduces Anxiety Based Depression –

  Anxiety which is a very common disorder could be the root cause for depression.This kind of depression is characterized by constant worry and nervousness. People who eat high levels of omega 3 fatty acids have less risk of depression. Fish oil boosts the effect of antidepressants and treats the symptoms of this kind of depression.

• Treats Asthma –

  A diet rich with omega-3s lowers inflammation, a key component in asthma. But no studies show that fish oil supplements improve functioning of lungs. Eating more Omega-3 rich foods reduce inflammation in the air passages of the lungs, which can have a very positive effect on your asthma.

• Improves Eye Health –

  DHA is a major structural component of the brain and retina of the eye. When you don’t get enough DHA, vision problems may arise. Getting enough amount of omega-3 reduces the risk of macular degeneration, one of the leading causes of color blindness and permanent eye damage.

• Reduce Symptoms Of ADHD In children –

  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Children who have lower blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids are at risk of suffering from with ADHD. Omega-3s help improves inattention and the ability to complete tasks. Eating sufficient amount of Omega- 3s in your diet decreases hyperactivity, impulsiveness, restlessness and aggression. Omega-3 supplements can reduce the symptoms of ADHD in children.

Symptoms Of Deficiency Of Omega-3s –

Deficiency of fatty acid levels in the body affects the health of skin, hair, and nails and are easy-to-spot in the form of physical symptoms. Various symptoms of Omega 3s deficiency are:

• Rough or dry ‘bumpy’ skin
• Soft, peeling or brittle nails
• Dry, dull or ‘lifeless’ brittle hair and dandruff
• Attention problems (distractibility and poor concentration)
• Excessive thirst, frequent urination
• Sleep problems (especially difficulties in settling at night and waking in the morning)
• Emotional sensitivity (such as depression, excessive mood swings or undue anxiety)
• Heart issues

If you experience two or more of these symptoms, you may have an omega-3 deficiency. Deficiencies can easily be remedied by changing your diet and lifestyle factors.