Omega-3

Omega-3 refers to Omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty acids are the building blocks of fats. Fats are vital nutrients and should be in all of our diets but fats from healthy sources such as nuts, fish, avocados, cheese, whole eggs, grass fed butter, etc. Omega-3 comes from both plant and animal sources. Marine animals such as fish provide Eicosapentaenoic acid (E.P.A) and Decosahexaenoic acid (D.H.A) which are promoted for their protective effects on the heart. Flaxseed, chia seeds and a small amount of other foods provide you with Alpha- linoleic acid (ALA). (E.P.A) and D.H.A) are the most important sources of Omega-3 while (A.H.A) will provide you with very little Omega-3 because (A.L.A) is converted in the (D.H.A) and (E.P.A) in your body at a very low ratio. This processs only happens when there are sufficent enzymes. This essentially means you should consume Omega-3 from animal sources but plant based foods which contain Omega-3 are not harmful or unhealthy by any means in fact Chia seeds are a superfood.(D.H.A) can affect your childs learning abilities and behaviour in a positive way. I once read about a study on achild who had very bad hand writing before taking an Omega-3 supplement every day for a month and the childs handwriting improved dramitacally. Laqck of Omega-3 has been found to contribute cancer and heart disease. Statistics are showing lack of Omega-3 may be the cause of almost 100,000 deaths every year. Most women have major deffiencies in Omega-3.Omega-3 can reduce the risk of abnormal heart rythm.The AHA says taking up to 3g of fish oil a day in supplement form is considered safe but this figure will vary for different people as we all have different nutritional needs. I would advise you talk to your doctor if you are considering taking any more than 3g of fish oil (in supplemantation form). For people with very high triglyceride levels perscription Omega-3 preparations are also available. Overall Omega-3 is extremely healthy and if you are Omega-3 defficient you are losing out on the benefits of this fatty acid. Omega-3 supplements are arguably the most important supplents of all.