I’ve been writing about omega-3 fatty acids for some time now. Research continues to show how important these fatty acids really are to the human body, and how omega-3 fatty acids and inflammation are somehow related. A study a few years ago at the University of Pittsburgh confirms what subsequent studies have found, how important Omega-3 fatty acids really are.
“Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine went on a molecular fishing trip and netted a catch of new mediators that not only can explain how omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, but also hint at novel treatments for a host of diseases linked to inflammatory processes.” [1]
Before I continue with this study, let’s take a look at what omega-3 fatty acids are, and the health benefits behind them. To do so I’ve included a quote below from the University of Maryland Medical Center’s web site:
“Omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential fatty acids: They are necessary for human health but the body can’t make them — you have to get them through food. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut, other seafood including algae and krill, some plants, and nut oils. Also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function as well as normal growth and development. They have also become popular because they may reduce the risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon) at least 2 times a week.” [2]
All of the research I’ve found concurs that “omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and may help lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain and appear to be important for cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function.” [2]
This information is not from a single study, rather from numerous studies over several years in which universities have been doing research. Runaway inflammation can lead to various serious health problems in the body involving the heart, arteries, lungs, joints and more. That’s probably why so much research is being done not only on inflammation but also on nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids, that fight inflammation.
If you’re looking to incorporate more omega-3-fatty acids into your diet, fish is your best bet. The purest choice fish include canned sardines or mackerel, wild Alaskan salmon and sable fish, and small, troll-caught tuna. However, if you’re not a fish eater, Vital Choice’s Sockeye Salmon Supplements provides all of the fatty acids and abundant vitamin D3 found in salmon head oil.
There are also other Omega-3 supplements, and many contain a premier and unique blend of four different types of the most highly regarded Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) oils – Fish, Flaxseed, Evening Primrose and Perilla Seed. They may also use contaminant-free fish oil that has undergone an intense distilling process.
Just as research on omega-3 fatty acids will continue, I will continue to write about what researchers find regarding this highly important nutrient.
Jeffrey Sloe
Independent TriVita Business Owner – #12871028
440-725-3729
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Resources:
[1] www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100502173503.htm
[2] www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/omega-3-000316.htm
Healthy Choice Foods High in Fatty Acids
The above information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.