The Benefits of Omega 3 OilThe health benefits of omega 3 fish oils (Essential Fatty Acids) have been heavily researched in recent years and have been shown to be one of the most beneficial supplements available today.Omega 3 fatty acids cannot be produced by the human body yet are vital for optimal health and wellbeing. Due to this fact Omega 3 fats MUST form part of our diet if optimal health and wellbeing are to be enjoyed. Omega 3s play a huge part in the general health of the body and are involved in supporting healthy growth and development, cell membrane formation, inflammation response, eye health, correct brain functioning, cardiovascular health and more. Omega 3 fats are polyunsaturated fats derived from the Alpha Linoleic Acid (ALA) family. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) stem from the ALA family and have been shown to be the most beneficial forms of omega 3. The body can convert ALA into EPA and DHA however the process is inefficient and it is more beneficial to include oily fish in the diet which contain high levels of EPA and DHA. The health benefits of omega 3 can be obtained by including cold water fish, walnuts, flax seeds and eggs in the diet with regularity. Alternatively a good quality fish oil supplement can provide a convenient means for those who do not like eating fish or prefer a capsule more palatable. Notably when looking for a good quality fish oil supplement, try to obtain products that contain high amounts of EPA and DHA on the product information label. The Benefits of Omega 3 OilsHeart HealthOne of the most important benefits of omega 3 oil is the impact it can have upon the health of the heart. It is well documented in research that regular consumption of omega 3 fish oils can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore omega 3s are also useful for those who have already been diagnosed with heart disease.So How Does it Work?One way in which Omega 3s help to promote heart health is by thinning the blood. The benefit of having blood that is less viscous is that it flows more easily through the arteries and veins and is less likely to clot which in turn reduces the risk of a blockage forming and so lessens the risk of heart attack. In addition, if blood flows with less resistance then the heart can work more efficiently.Omega 3 fats have also been shown to improve the body’s cholesterol profile. Low Density Lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) circulating in the blood can accumulate and cause narrowing within the arteries and veins reducing the amount of blood that can flow and increasing the risk of blockage and consequently heart attack. Omega 3s have the effect of reducing LDL levels while increasing HDL levels creating a more favourable ratio, improving circulation while also reducing blood pressure.
Reduced InflammationOne of the major benefits of omega 3 is the effect it can have upon inflammation within the body. In the western world today Omega 6 fats are the greatest contributor to our polyunsaturated fat consumption. These fats are derived from food sources including vegetable and seed oils. The inception of fast food has also lead to a massive increase in the consumption of these types of vegetable oil due to deep frying and baking etc.Omega 6 (arachidonic acid) fatty acids compete with Omega 3 in various biological reactions within the body and notably work in opposition to one another. Interestingly, Omega 6 fatty acids are required for producing inflammation in the body (necessary for fighting infection) while omega 3 serve to reduce inflammation.
Excessive inflammation has been linked to a range of conditions and illnesses including joint pain, coronary heart disease, cancer, arthritis, crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and lupus. Research has indicated that increased consumption of Omega 3 fats can play a significant role in off-setting the effects of omega 6 and improving the previously mentioned conditions through reduced inflammation. The current recommendation is that Omega 3 and Omega 6 should be consumed in equal proportions within the diet. Improved Cognitive FunctionAnother of the benefits of omega 3 oil consumption is the reputed effects on brain function. Several studies have indicated increased consumption of omega 3 fats to have a positive effect on memory, mood, anxiety and depression.In addition, research into the effects of omega 3 supplementation on psychological disorders including ADHD and bi polar disorder have revealed that supplementation with fish oil may have a significant positive effect. Due to the complexity of the brain more research in this area is needed, but initial results look encouraging. Improved Body CompositionA study conducted by the South Australian University indicated that another of the benefits of omega 3 oil is that it may assist weight loss. The study compared two groups of over weight individuals who each received the same diet and exercise program. One group received 6g of fat daily from sunflower oil (which has no omega 3 content) while the second group received 1.8g of omega 3 fish oil per day.The study revealed that the group given the fish oil demonstrated significantly more fat loss than the first group. It is thought that the benefits of omega 3 oil in terms of weight loss may occur through decreased insulin levels following omega 3 ingestion. More research is needed in this area. As with most things in life, you can have too much of a good thing and excessive comsumption of Omega 3 oils is not advised due to the implications it brings for increased bleeding times. Before taking any new supplement it is advisable to speak to your G.P.
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