Omega-3, Health benefits

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid and is particularly important as it has a number of positive effects on your body and to the brain. There are three types of Omega-3 fatty acids,: ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) , EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

There are many benefits to Omega-3 and these are outlined in this blog post.

Can Improve Eye Health
DHA is a major structural component of the retina of your eye, if you don’t get enough DHA you may have issues with your eyesight. It is linked to a reduction in risk of macular degeneration, one of the world’s leading causes of permanent eye damage and blindness

Can Improve Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Fish eating communities have very low rates of heart disease, this is linked to their Omega-3 consumption.

These benefits address:

• Triglycerides –  Can cause a major reduction in triglycerides.
• Blood pressure: – Can reduce blood pressure levels in people with high blood pressure.
• “Good” HDL cholesterol: Can raise “good” HDL cholesterol levels.
• Plaque: Keeps your arteries smooth and free from damage, Omega-3s help prevent the plaque that can restrict and harden your arteries.
• Inflammation: Reduces the production of some substances released during your body’s inflammatory response.

Can Reduce Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome
This includes central obesity as well as high blood pressure, insulin resistance, high triglycerides and low “good” HDL cholesterol levels.
It can improve insulin resistance, inflammation and heart disease risk factors in people with metabolic syndrome.

Can Fight Inflammation
Inflammation is vital for your health. However, it sometimes persists for a long time, even without an infection or injury. This is called long-term inflammation which can contribute to almost every chronic illness, including heart disease and cancer.
Studies have consistently observed a connection between higher Omega-3 intake and reduced inflammation.

Can Improve Mental Disorders
Studies suggest that Omega-3 supplements can reduce the frequency of mood swings and relapses in people with both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Supplementing with Omega-3 fatty acids may also decrease violent behaviour.

Fights Depression and Anxiety
In a number of studies people that regularly consumed Omega-3 were less likely to be depressed and when people with depression or anxiety start taking Omega-3 supplements, their symptoms improved.

May Improve Bone and Joint Health
Omega-3s can improve bone strength by boosting the amount of calcium in your bones, which should lead to a reduced risk of osteoporosis.
Omega-3s may also treat arthritis. Patients taking Omega-3 supplements have reported reduced joint pain and increased grip strength.

Can Alleviate Menstrual Pain
Menstrual pain occurs in your lower abdomen and pelvis and often radiates to your lower back and thighs. studies repeatedly prove that women who consume the most Omega-3s have milder menstrual pain.

May Improve Sleep
Good sleep is essential for good health.
Studies tie sleep deprivation to many diseases, including obesity, diabetes and depression.
Studies in both children and adults reveal that supplementing with Omega-3 increases the length and quality of sleep.

Good For Your Skin
DHA is a structural component of your skin. It is responsible for the health of cell membranes, which make up a large part of your skin.
A healthy cell membrane results in soft, moist, supple and wrinkle-free skin.

EPA also benefits your skin in several ways, including:

• Managing oil production and hydration of your skin.
• Preventing hyperkeratinisation of hair follicles, which appears as the little red bumps often seen on upper arms.
• Reducing premature aging of your skin.
• Reducing the risk of acne.

Omega-3s can also protect your skin from sun damage. EPA helps block the release of substances that eat away at the collagen in your skin after sun exposure.

Omega-3 fatty acids are incredibly important for optimal health. Omega-3 can be found in food or it can be taken as a supplement to support your diet and ensure a consistent intake.  Some foods that’s contain Omega-3 are:

• Mackerel
• Salmon
• Cod liver oil
• Herring
• Oysters
• Sardines
• Anchovies
• Flax Seeds
• Chia Seeds
• Walnuts
• Soy Beans
• Edamame
• Kidney Beans

If you don’t eat any of these foods then you should consider a supplement. Ultra Omega is available here.