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So what’s the hype about omega-3 fatty acids? Most people have heard about healthy fats but don’t fully understand what they do or how important they are to include in your daily diet. What you need to know is that when it comes to healthy polyunsaturated fats, none are better for you than omega-3s.
That’s because, according to mindbodygreen, they are necessary to help build and maintain your body and help to keep your major systems including: heart, blood vessels, lungs as well as your immune system functioning.
There are actually three major types of omega-3s; DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) that is found in fish and plant-based sources like algae; EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) found in fatty fish; and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) that is only found in plant-based sources like seeds and nuts. All of them are loaded with health benefits that your body needs.
While you can get all the omega-3s you need from food, If you are not into fish, you can take supplements. Check out these five good reasons to consume omega-3s daily.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is a natural response that your body produces to help fight infections and injury, according to Healthline, but sometimes inflammation persists for a long time. This is called long-term inflammation and it can contribute to chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish can reduce the production of inflammation and help you maintain good health.
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May Help Heart Health
Heart disease and strokes are the world’s leading cause of death but countries that eat large amounts of fish have lower rates of heart disease. An overview of the relationship of eating fish oil fatty acids and coronary heart disease found that omega-3 reduced the risks of heart disease by reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) and lowering blood pressure.
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Promotes Brain Health
Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are critical for brain function at all ages, from brain development in the womb, to brain function in early childhood to preserving cell function in seniors according to Healthline. In fact, fatty acids found in fish oil can actually help improve brain function in people with cognitive and memory issues like those who have Alzheimer’s disease.
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Could Improve Mood
Psychology Today calls omega-3s the building blocks of happy brains. That’s because the fatty acid EPA found in fish plays an important role in mood balance and lessening the symptoms of depression.
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Contains Eye Health Benefits
Omega-3 fatty acids help to protect against age-related macular degeneration that causes vision loss according to All About Vision. These fatty acids also help the fluid inside your eyes drain properly and that could lower the risk of glaucoma. The fatty acids you get from eating foods rich in omega-3s actually protect eyes better than taking supplements.
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