In this article on Omega 3 Benefits you will learn about 6 health benefits of including Omega 3 fatty acids in your daily diet. There are actually 3 types of Omega 3 fatty acids. However, there is only one type that is considered essential, meaning it cannot be manufactured by the body. That essential Omega 3 fatty acid is called alpha-linolenic acid.
There is another essential fatty acid which is called Omega 6, also known as linolenic acid. We don’t hear as much about Omega 6 because it is more widely available in our diet than the Omega 3 essential fatty acid. Omega 6 fats are found in pumpkin, wheatgerm, corn, soy, and safflower oils.
To insure you are receiving an adequate supply of Omega 3 acids add 1 ½ tablespoons of ground flax seed or ¼ cup soaked walnuts to your daily diet. Other very good vegetarian sources are cabbage, and cauliflower. Additionally, vegetables like brussel sprouts, green beans, squash (winter and summer), spinach and romaine contain smaller amounts of Omega 3. Although, many fish and seafood contain Omega 3 oils we do not recommend them on a regular basis because of the concern for mercury contamination.
Following are 6 great reasons why you will want to make sure you are getting your recommended daily allowance of alpha-linolenic acid.
Omega 3 benefit #1 - Promotes healthy cell growth and function. Research with mice has shown that Omega 3 fatty acids help prevent breast cancer development.
Omega 3 benefit #2 – Aids in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are powerful hormones that help regulate bodily functions like blood pressure, blood clotting, allergic responses, nerve transmissions, the production of other hormones, as well as the function of the kidneys and the gastrointestinal tract.
Omega 3 benefit #3 – Research has discovered that Omega 3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties. In years past people were advised to take cod liver oil for “all manner of lameness.” Now we know that cod liver oil is rich in Omega 3 fats.
Omega 3 benefit #4 – Helps reduce the risk of obesity because Omega 3 fats have a positive impact on the body’s ability to utilize insulin, a hormone that helps regulate metabolism.
Omega 3 benefit #5 – Helps prevent and reduce the progression of cardiovascular disease.
Omega 3 benefit #6 – Conditions that may be helped by adding Omega 3 food sources to your diet include: depression, diabetes 2, brittle hair and nails, inability to concentrate, and fatigue.
Six good reasons why eating your omega 3 fatty acids every day will help keep the doctor away.
