Sunday, 3 June 2012

Health Benefits of Omega 3 Fatty Acids In Fish

Research has shown that Omega 3 fatty acids in fish protect their hearts and also give other health benefits. In humans omega 3 has health benefits when taken in suitable doses. But humans cannot produce these fatty acids in the body; we need to get it through food. Fish is the major source for omega 3 so where does that leave vegetarians? There are sources that are 100 per cent vegetarian like oil of canola and flaxseed.
Why is Omega-3 so important? It plays a crucial role in brain function, as well as normal growth and development. It reduces inflammation and may help lower risk of chronic heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. In fact, infants who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids from their mothers during pregnancy may develop vision and nerve problems. Symptoms of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency include fatigue, poor memory, dry skin, heart problems, mood swings or depression and poor circulation.
Take a look at these benefits.
Heart health: One of the best ways to help prevent heart disease is to eat a diet low in saturated fat and rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (including omega-3 fatty acids). Fish oil has been shown to lower triglycerides levels and risk of heart attack, stroke, and abnormal heart rhythms in people who have already had a heart attack. Large population studies suggest that getting omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, primarily from fish, helps protect against stroke caused by plaque build-up and blood clots in the arteries that lead to the brain.
High Blood Pressure: Several clinical studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. Omega 3 has been proven to lower hypertension. An analysis of several clinical studies using fish oil supplements found that taking three or more grams of fish oil daily may reduce blood pressure in people with untreated hypertension.
Diabetes: Scientific experts and research studies appear to support the use of fish oil supplements for patients with type 2 diabetes, suggesting a positive effect on triglyceride levels and no adverse effect on glycemic control. People with diabetes often have high triglyceride and low HDL levels. Omega-3 fatty acids can help lower triglycerides and Apo proteins (markers of diabetes), and raise HDL. It is also useful in combating circulation problems associated with diabetes by rendering the walls of the veins and arteries smoother and more elastic.
Breast Cancer: A large survey of postmenopausal women has found that fish oil may guard against breast cancer. Women who eat or take Omega 3 supplements over years may be less likely to develop breast cancer
Prostate Cancer: A diet high in Omega-3 fatty acids reduced prostate cancer growth, slowed disease progression and increased survival.
Colon Cancer: Omega 3 greatly reduces the risk of this type of cancer. They are less prone for certain other types of cancer as well. Fish oil slows down the progression of colon cancer. But remember to check with your doctor before taking any supplements.
Menstrual cramps: Omega 3 fatty acids seem to block the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for cramps in the uterus. The overall benefits are so good it would be a great idea to give it a shot.
Pregnant and nursing mothers: The benefit here is in the development of the brain. Pregnant women should consider using distilled fish oil pills. It also helps deal with attention deficit, hyper activity and higher IQ levels. Remember it's always a good idea to talk to a doctor before starting the supplements.
Miscarriages: Some studies have shown that omega 3 can help decrease chances of reccurring miscarriages also called anti-phospholipid syndrome.
ADHD: ADHD is a problem with inattentiveness, over-activity, impulsivity, or a combination. Omega 3 can have a significant positive impact on the ability to perform in school and can reduce ADHD, dyslexia and dysphasia in growing children.
Asthma: Studies examining omega-3 fatty acids for asthma are mixed. In one small well designed clinical study of 29 children with asthma, those who took fish oil supplements rich in EPA and DHA for 10 months reduced their symptoms compared to children who took placebo. However, most other studies have shown no effect.

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