I continue to do research on nutritional products provided by many companies. In a effort to solidify the information provided by these companies, along with the claims made on their products, I always feel a need to go that extra mile, and do my own research. With that said, here is what I’ve found experts, backed by case studies, have said about the importance of omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs).
“Dr Emanuel Severus of the Berlin University finds that major depression is characterized by a deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids and that these acids possess powerful anti-arrhythmic properties. He suggests that the missing link in the recently established association between major depression and sudden cardiac death may be the omega-3 fatty acid deficiency which characterizes both conditions.” [1]
The American Heart Association (AHA) has been claiming that omega-3 is important to keeping the heart healthy. I’ve also written about that in my past articles. As a matter of fact, the AHA recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon) at least 2 times a week. Your can learn more by going to their web site.
“DHA, a major component of fish oils, is the most important fatty acid in the brain and retina and makes up more than 30% of the structural lipid (fat) in neurons. There is ample evidence that a deficiency of DHA is associated with depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and dementia. Clinical studies have shown that an increased intake of DHA may benefit patients with dyslexia and Alzheimer’s disease.” [2]
“Researchers at Boston University and Tufts University School of Medicine now report that they have found a clear association between low blood levels of DHA and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease…The researchers suggest that maintaining adequate levels of DHA through the consumption of fish or dietary supplements rich in DHA may be particularly important for the elderly.” [2]
I’ve written articles about Alzheimer’s Disease, and the importance of omega-3 fatty acids as a preventative natural product. In the previous study, it’s a proven fact that “increased intake of DHA may benefit patients with dyslexia and Alzheimer’s disease.” Supplements high in omega-3 fatty acid, are great sources of DHA to help prevent this terrible disease.
“Manic-depressive illness (bipolar disorder) is a common, severe mental illness involving repeated episodes of depression, mania (rapid mood changes, hyperactivity, and excessive cheerfulness) or both. It is usually treated with drugs such as lithium carbonate or valproate. Unfortunately, these drugs are not very effective and recurrence rates are high. It is generally believed that bipolar disorder involves an overactivity in the neuronal signal pathways. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to dampen this overactivity and medical researchers at the Harvard Medical School have confirmed that omega-3 oils may be useful in the treatment of bipolar disorder.” [3]
This is the first information I’ve seen regarding omega-3 being used to treat bipolar disorders. However, it must be working because the Harvard researchers urge that further trials of fish oils in the treatment of depression and manic-depressive illness be completed.
Those are just a few findings on the importance of incorporating omega-3 into your daily diet. I know a lot of people do not like fish, that’s why finding an omega-3 supplement with a premier blend of essential fatty acids from 4 sources — Fish, Flaxseed, Evening Primrose and Perilla Seed, may be right for you.
If you need additional information, please contact me.
Sources
[1] Severus, W. Emanuel, et al. Omega-3 fatty acids: the missing link? Archives of General Psychiatry, Vol.56, April 1999, pp. 380-81 (letter to the editor)
[2] Kyle, D. J., et al. Low serum docosahexaenoic acid is a significant risk factor for Alzheimer’s dementia. Lipids, Vol.34 (suppl), 1999, p.S245.
[3] Stoll, Andrew L. et al. Omega 3 fatty acids in bipolar disorder. Archives of General Psychiatry, Vol.56, May 1999, pp.407-12 and pp.415-16 (commentary)