Many people have heard of heart-friendly Omega-3 fatty acids and the health benefits they provide. Omega-3 fatty acids have been the topic of many recent research projects, articles and health bulletins. Many people are not aware that there are two types of Omega fatty acids.
Omega fatty acids include both Omega-3 fatty acids and Omega-6 fatty acids. However, science suggests that increased dietary intake of Omega-3 may be more important to general health than intake of Omega-6.
Research has discovered that Omega-3 fatty acids are important to
optimal brain function, and may help prevent major diseases and
disorders such as high blood pressure, heart disease, schizophrenia,
and attention deficit disorder. Research has also indicated that the
consumption of Omega-3 supplements may help reduce the risk of cancer.
It is widely known that fish oils contain Omega-3 fatty acids. Most of the Omega fatty acid dietary supplements currently on the market contain fish oil as the primary source for Omega-3 fatty acids. It is less widely known that meat from grass-fed animals such as buffalo also provides a rich source of Omega-3. Meat from animals that consume grass as their main source of food has been shown to contain Omega-3 fatty acids. This happens because quantities of Omega-3 are found in the leaves that these animals consume. Scientific studies on the grass used as feed indicate that as much as 60% of the fatty acids in the plants that these animals consume consist of Omega-3.
Vegetarians and others looking for non-meat sources of Omega-3 also have viable options for adding this nutrient to their daily diet. Oil from Flaxseed and Canola are natural, vegetarian sources of Omega-3s.
Supplements manufactured from these oils are widely available on the health product market. Consuming the oils themselves, via cooking, can provide the same benefits as supplements. Some other natural sources of Omega-3s are Chia seeds, purslane, green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage, walnuts and the oil extracted from walnuts.
Some manufactured foods are fortified with Omega-3 fatty acids. It is important to include such foods in the everyday diet. Some bread products are now being fortified with Omega-3s and some of the crackers manufactured in countries such as Malaysia are being fortified with both Omega-3 and Omega-6. To find other Omega-3 rich foods, perform an internet search, talk to a health professional or visit your local library. Plan to use these fortified foods daily or add Omega-3 supplements to a healthy lifestyle routine to ensure continued good health.
Disclaimer: The information in this article does not constitute professional advice. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It is best to consult with a physician.
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