Omega-3
Omega-3 essential fatty acids can only be obtained through diets and supplements. These beneficial fats are found in fatty fish, free-range eggs, and the meat and milk of pasture-fed cows.
Omega-3s provide protection against a wide range of conditions involving our cardiovascular, emotional, immune and neurological systems.
There is very good evidence that having the correct balance of omega-3 fatty acids vs omega-6 fatty acids is a contributor to maintaining healthy blood pressure and preventing the accumulation of triglycerides (blood fats), which lead to hardened arteries. In addition, omega-3s may help provide protection against heart arrhythmias and blood clots.
Omega-3s have important effects in the brain, which is largely made up of fat. Correct amounts of DHA, an important essential fatty acid, affect serious mental health problems such as depression and bipolar disorder, as well as more general issues with memory and attention span.
In addition, omega-3s have important effects on inflammatory conditions and other immune system issues, such as asthma and allergies.
My patient Jonathan called not long ago, anxiously asking for an emergency appointment. We found a time for him to come in that day. He rushed in and told me he’d just read a new study linking omega-3 essential fatty acids with an increased risk of prostate cancer. I’ve been recommending omega-3 supplements to many […]
Omega-3 fatty acids are one of several types of essential fatty acids (EFAs). They’re called EFAs because they’re essential to human health, but the body can’t make them, so they must come from dietary sources. Omega-3-rich fish oil supplements are the easiest, most common, way to supplement your diet with extra Omega-3s, but cold water […]
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