Some science-approved facts on Omega-3 fatty acid

With time, we have all understood the significance of healthy diets, or to be more precise, balanced diets, be it after being diagnosed with a disease or to remain fit.

And, while we learn more about balanced diets, understanding the role played by essential nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acid can take us a step closer to achieving optimal health.

To begin with, these nutrients are one of the main building blocks of your cell wall. And, it is also known to be a necessary nutrient to have a healthy heart.

Want to know some more surprising facts on Omega 3 wellness? Then, hop on and let’s delve into the facts, straight away!

5 Amazing facts on Omega-3 fatty acid
i) It is good for your heart
When it comes to your heart health, Omega-3 can do wonders!

Reports confirm that eating fish made people less likely to have heart attacks and strokes. And, later, it was concluded that this only happened because Omega-3 got to play its role!

Furthermore, reducing the level of triglycerides, keeping a check on your blood pressure levels, raising the level of “good” cholesterol and minimizing the chances of forming blood clots are some other Omega-3 health benefits when it comes to your heart.

ii) Helps in improving your eye health
Did you know that DHA is one of the structural parts of our eye? And, interestingly, DHA, is also a form of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Well, yes, having Omega-3 can keep your vision problems at bay.

And, there are studies that suggest that having adequate Omega-3 can reduce the chances of muscular degeneration, which is one of the leading causes of vision loss and eye damage.

iii) It’s great in fighting away anxiety and depression
Now, here’s one more interesting one!

Other than DHA, EPA is also a type of Omega-3 fatty acid. This EHA component plays a vital role in treating various neuropsychiatric diseases like Parkinson’s disease, dementia, depression and anxiety, suggests some reports.

Depression and anxiety, which are some of the most common conditions these days, can be reduced by consuming Omega-3 supplements in the desired amount.

In fact, many studies have also found EPA to work extremely well as an antidepressant drug.

iv) It can minimize the ADHD symptoms in children
This miraculous nutrient can also be of great help for the kids, too.

ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Syndrome, a common behavioral condition is quite common in children. This condition leads to hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention.

There have been numerous studies that suggest that having foods with Omega-3 can play a significant role in reducing ADHD symptoms like restlessness, aggression and improves the tendency of task completion in kids.

v) Keeps your skin supple and smooth
Last but not least, DHA and EPA combined can do miracles for your skin. While DHA forms the structural component, EPA benefits your skin by keeping it hydrated, reducing premature aging, and lowering the risks of acne.

Interestingly, you get both EPA and DHA from proper intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. Not only that, but EPA can also protect you from sun damage by stopping the release of collagen after sun exposure.

So, if you want supple and smooth skin, you already know the drill!

Now that you know some surprising facts, we can guess your eagerness to know about Omega-3 rich foods. So, here’s helping you know some important food sources.

Food Sources
Though very essential, our bodies do not produce Omega-3. So, we have to rely on foods and dietary supplements to ensure adequate intake.

You can have Omega-3 fatty acids from both animal and plant-based sources. And, if you are not comfortable with eating fishes, you can easily opt for plant-based sources to get this nutrient in the right proportion.

Some animal-based sources include:

Seafood like shrimps and oysters
Fishes, especially the fatty ones like tuna, sardines, mackerel, salmon
Fish liver oil
Eggs
Now, let’s have a look into some plant-based sources:

Plant oils like soybean, canola and flaxseed oil
Nuts and seeds such as chia seeds, walnut, hemp seeds
Green leafy vegetables
Kidney beans
Role of supplements
With time, Omega-3 supplements are becoming more and more popular, worldwide. And there are a number of reasons for that.

The primary one would be that these Omega-3 capsules are infused with other essential micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. So, along with having the required dosage of Omega-3, you also get other essentials!

Also, many times, even if you maintain a healthy diet, you can have Omega-3 deficiency. In these cases, these tablets come in handy. All you will need is a capsule a day, and you are good to go!

Key Takeaway
Unlike other fats, Omega-3 fatty acids are of great benefit. Be it your skin, brain or your heart, there’s no end to how this nutrient can help you achieve optimal health.

Therefore, know the importance of Omega-3 daily requirement and ensure adequate intake of this essential via good sources of dietary supplements.

But while you are at it, do remember to maintain the proper dosage as having more than the desired amount can lead to more bad than good.

References:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/17-health-benefits-of-omega-3

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/40253#food-sources

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-are-omega-3-fatty-acids#what-they-are