Omega 3 fatty acids and the heart
There are a number of different omega supplement available on the market that help reduce cholesterol and promote overall health.
The Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics, through a 2014 paper on dietary fats, says that adults should receive 20 to 25% energy from dietary fats, avoiding saturated fats & maintaining a balance between Essential Fatty Acids{EFA} & Non Essential Fatty Acids{NEFA} either through diet or by supplementation.
The two EFA’s that body cannot produce are OMEGA-3 & OMEGA-6 Fatty Acids.
The two EFA’s that body cannot produce are OMEGA-3 & OMEGA-6 Fatty Acids.
OMEGA-3 Fatty Acids
These consist mainly of Docosa Hexanoic Acid {DHA} & Alpha Linolenic acid (ALA), which finally transform into Arachidonic Acid for action. Both are Poly Unsaturated Fatty Acids(PUFA). Flaxseed oil is a rich source of OMEGA-3 Fatty Acids.
ACTIONS:
- They are integral part of CNS & Visual System.
- They reduce levels of blood Triglycerrhides to reduce risk of heart attack.
- They have Anti-Oxidant & Membrane Stabilizing Properties.
- They improve Neuro-Genesis & Synapto-Genesis.
- They increase Brain Serotonin Levels to rectify Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) & Alzheimer’s disease.
OMEGA-6 Fatty Acids
These are poly unsaturated Fatty Acids, of which Linoleic Acid is the main constituent, Wheat Germ Oil, Grape Seeds, Sunflower Oil, are all rich source of OMEGA-6 Fatty Acids.
ACTIONS:
- Bolster Immune System
- Improve Brain & Behavioral functions.
- Stimulate Skin & Hair Growth.
- Maintain Reproductive Health.
- Regulate Metabolism.
OMEGA-9 Fatty Acids
These are Mono-Unsaturated Fatty Acids, mainly Oleic Acid & Stearic Acid. Our body can produce these, when there is enough of OMEGA-3 & OMEGA-6 Fatty Acids in the body, particularly in ratio of 4.5:1. Sunflower Oil/Flaxseed Oil & wheat germ oil are rich sources.
ACTIONS:
- Increase HDL, while Lowering LDL.
- Eliminate Plaque Formation, prevent Atherosclerosis & prevent Strokes.
- Increase Metabolism.
- Improve Mood & Immune functions.
WHEAT GERM OIL {VITAMIN E}
- Antioxidant properties
- Strengthens capillary walls
- Speeds up cell regeneration
- Creates an Anti- Ageing effect
OVERALL BENEFITS OF OMEGA3, 6, 9 FATTY ACIDS + VITAMIN E
- Prevent Coronary Disease
- Prevent Strokes
- Prevent Diabetes
- Promote Healthy Nerve Activity
- Improve Vitamin Absorption
- Maintain Healthy Immune System
- Promote cell Development, Prevent cell death{Apoptosis}