At a time when lifestyle diseases have become rampant, people continue to search for more natural remedies that can help cure or prevent illnesses. And with the current situation still not letting up, being our healthiest is not an option, it’s a must! One can always look up what nutrient the body needs, and adjust according to needs.
One of those healthy recommendations that really hit the headlines in the 1970’s is the Omega-3 fatty acids discovered on the Inuit Eskimos of Greenland. These people have a high-fat diet yet they have very low incidence of heart diseases. Inuit diet is comprised mostly of fish which contains plenty of long-chained omega-3 fats or eicosapentanoic acids (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA).
EPA and DHA as essential for people’s well-being, and since the human body cannot produce these; we have to consume food that is enriched with them. Omega-3 has been tagged as the “good fat” because of its health benefits. Seafood as well as some plants such as walnuts and flaxseed are said to be great sources of Omega-3. The diet was met with criticisms, as most diet regimen would. But nowadays, food intake of less carbohydrates with more protein and fat – bordering to carnivore is not frowned upon as it used to. It is even a documented effective way to reduce weight.
To look more, the region where the Inuits reside can come into factor. But looking at health resources do point out that there are benefits to incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids to one’s diet. Every single cell in the human body uses Omega-3 fatty acids and is said to aid different health conditions including:
Table of Contents
Heart and Liver Diseases
The American Heart Association recommends eating foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce the risk of developing heart diseases. Essential nutrients in fish oil are known to lower the concentration of fats in blood and prevent the hardening of the arteries.
For those with liver problem conditions, low-carbohydrate food with good omega-3 content is good. Salmon is by far, the best source for this.
Depression and Mental Health
Research show kids getting more attentive and that people who consume omega-3 fatty acids along with their prescription antidepressant have improved significantly compared to those who relied on their antidepressant alone. Moreover, Omega-3 fatty acids is also said to help protect women against postpartum depression.
Arthritis and Joint Mobility
Bone density starts to decrease as we age and this leads to conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis. Omega-3 is known to have potent anti-inflammatory properties and is said to help increase the body’s calcium levels. Studies and research also show that the Inuit and people who consumed fish regularly have very few cases of osteoporosis.
Vision and Eye Care
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential in the development of brain and visual functions in infants and are also associated with the preservation of these functions throughout life. People who have omega-3 enriched diet composed of fish and vegetables are has lower risks of developing macular degeneration.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Wonders of the “Good Fat” : Takeaways
People who are diagnosed to have higher risks of developing medical conditions such as heart diseases, depression, osteoporosis and arthritis can gain a lot of health benefits from Omega-3 fatty acids rich foods.
It is said to aid in reducing cholesterol and in the stabilization of blood pressure, stroke prevention, cancer prevention particularly breast, colon and prostate cancers. Women can take advantage of omega-3 in menopause symptoms as well as in easing menstrual discomfort. If you are also looking to lose weight, you may ask your doctor about including this in your diet. However, taking Omega-3 supplements should be done with the supervision of a health care provider.
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