Omega-3s For Overall Health

Omega-3s have been shown to benefit heart, brain, and mental health. They are most commonly found in fish oil. However, the modern Western diet, which is heavy in beef, pork, and poultry, is extremely low in omega-3s. At the same time, our diets tend to be high in omega-6. High omega-6 levels, found in many processed foods, increases chronic inflammation, accelerates development of atherosclerosis, elevates risk for blood clots, and increases risk for obesity. Getting your omega-3s from regular consumption of fish and/or supplementation can help counter this omega-6 excess.

Heart Health

The Framingham Heart Study, one of the longest-running and most influential medial studies in history, found that having more omega-3s in the blood reduced non-cardiac and non-cancer causes of death, along with cardiovascular events like stroke and heart attack.

Brain Health

Omega-3s play a critical role in the brain as they are a key component of the brain cell membranes. Myelin sheaths that cover nerve fibers require omega-3s to function optimally. One study in an animal model of Alzheimer’s disease found that even short-term omega-3 intake improved the function of brain cells in animals that had not yet developed dementia symptoms.

Mental Health

Studies show that lower fish oil or omega-3 intake is associated with a greater prevalence of depression. In a 2020 study, pregnant women—who are at risk for post-partum depression—were randomized to take either omega-3 fatty acids or a placebo. Those taking the omega-3s saw a decrease in symptoms of depression, while no change was observed in the placebo group.

SPMs

New research is showing that Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), derived from omegas, have important roles in orchestration the resolution of inflammation.

Recommendation

Look for an omega-3 with SPMs to get even more out of your supplement. Try Garden of Life’s Advanced Omega with SPMs that naturally support normal inflammatory response.

Sources:

Life Extension, March/April 2022

Nature, Dec. 21, 2015

Gardenoflife.com

Angel Hill-Reynolds, DNM, M Ed., offers Natural Health Assessments, using the art of iridology with science-based solutions. She offers telehealth and in-store appointments. Visit AlternativeHealthFoodStore.com for details.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.