Omega-3 fatty acids are an unsaturated form of fat founds in different foods. These are an extremely beneficial source of fatty acids. The benefits have been known for many years, since the 1930s. They have been known to be essential for normal growth and health, but the notice of their health benefits have been more focused on in the past few years.
Supplements are actually a purer and more effective version of Omega-3s than traditional forms. The FDA approved Omega-3s as a cardiovascular health improver. They are also helpful in improving depression, anxiety, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer prevention. Supplements can also help reduce high blood pressure and cholesterol.
The natural sources of Omega-3s are fish, krill, mussels, flax, eggs, grass fed beef, and algae. Cold water fish like salmon and mackerel are great sources for Omega-3s. However, most people do not get enough of these essential fatty acids in their daily normal diet. There are fortified food products that include Omega-3s, but there are also fabulous natural supplements that make getting a necessary daily amount simple and easy.
The cardiovascular benefits of Omega-3 were initially discovered in an Inuit tribe in Greenland. This tribe ate a lot of fat, but most of it was from a seafood based diet. Even though there was a significant amount of fat, there was virtually no trace of cardiovascular disease in these people. The high amount of fatty acids reduced their blood pressure, heart rate, triglycerides, and atherosclerosis. Further studies have shown reduced arterial thickness as well as lower cholesterol. Fatty acids combined with statin drugs give even greater benefits.
Omega-3s have also been shown to reduce cancer risk. In prostate cancer patients slowed tumor growth and increased survival has been shown in men taking supplements. For women with breast cancer, supplements have been shown to improve weight and appetite as well as increase quality of life.
As with any supplement or medicinal product, there are some risks associated. Increased bleeding and risk of stroke can occur when very large doses are taken. If you stay within the recommended daily allowance, this should not be a problem. Omega-3s can also reduce blood sugar level control in patients with diabetes. Before taking any supplement it is important to check with a physician before starting any new regimen.
There are many high quality supplements on the market. Fish oil is the most commonly available form of supplement. Other sources are flaxseed oil capsules. If you choose fish oil supplements, be sure to choose from a reputable company that has supplements free of mercury, cadmium and lead. For an adult 3 grams a day is enough to reap all the great health benefits.
