You’ve likely heard about omega-3 fatty acids and their incredible health benefits. But what exactly are they, and why are they so important? Let’s dive in!
What’s Omega-3 Anyway?
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids our bodies cannot make alone, meaning we need to get them from our food. The three types of fatty acids in omega-3 that are most important to our health are:
1. Alpha-linolenic Acid (ALA): Abundant in vegan food sources like flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, and vegetable oils such as soybean and canola oil.
2. Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA): EPA is mainly found in fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and algae.
3. Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA): Like EPA, DHA is found in fatty fish and algae.
Because the modern diet has a lot of junk and refined foods, it’s almost impossible to have a diet abundant in these game-changing omega-3 fatty acids. This is why most people turn to omega-3 fish oil supplements.
5 Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplements
Heart Health
According to studies, people with a diet rich in fish oil have much lower risks of heart disease. Some of the ways it improves cardiovascular health are by:
1. Lowering Triglyceride Levels: High Triglycerides (a type of fat) can increase the risk of heart disease. Omega-3 supplementation has been proven to decrease triglyceride levels.
2. Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is thought to be a massive contributor to heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acid intake has been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Lowering Blood Pressure: Studies have shown that regular omega-3 rich supplements or foods can modestly reduce blood pressure, especially in people with hypertension.
4. Improving Endothelial Function: Omega-3s can improve endothelial function, crucial for maintaining normal blood flow and preventing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
Brain Booster
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) comprises about 97% of all omega-3 fats in the brain and is essential for its development and proper functioning. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to enhancing brain function, memory, and mood regulation. Moreover, they may help minimize the risk of cognitive decline that comes with aging and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Omega-3 fatty acids regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, impacting our mood and behavior. Several studies have established a correlation between lower levels of omega-3s in the blood and certain mental health conditions, such as depression. Eating more omega-3 fatty acids from our dietary sources can help prevent the onset or improve the symptoms of such conditions.
Joint Relief
EPA and DHA can reduce inflammation, which is responsible for joint swelling and pain. Studies have shown that these fatty acids help repress the body’s immune system, which can alleviate pain. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids can improve joint function and mobility in those with arthritis over time by reducing inflammation and preserving joint cartilage.
While calcium and Vitamin D are the two pillars of bone health, some studies have also shown omega-3 to be beneficial in increasing bone mineral density and bone quality, which is particularly useful for people with old age.
Eye Health
Our retinas have the highest concentration of DHA and play an important role in maintaining their structure and function. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of vision loss in older adults, and omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, can help decrease the risk of developing AMD and slow its progression.
Omega-3 fatty acids also have beneficial effects in relieving the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. This is done by reducing inflammation in the eyes and stabilizing the tear film. Omega-3s play a crucial role in promoting tear production and decreasing excessive evaporation, which can decrease the symptoms of dry eyes.
Radiant Skin
Omega-3s can regulate the skin’s oil production, suppress breakouts, and minimize signs of aging. They can also help soften rough, dry skin and soothe irritation and dermatitis.
By improving the fatty acid composition of your skin, omega-3s help keep your skin soft and balance your skin’s response to inflammation, which helps control eczema and psoriasis. They can also reduce the effects of sun damage and increase collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and maintain overall skin health.
Dosage, Drugstore, and More
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements boast many health benefits, including heart, eye, skin, and mental health, and are definitely one of the most helpful supplements available in the market today. While there isn’t a recommended daily allowance, most health organizations recommend a minimum dosage of 250–500 mg combined EPA and DHA daily for healthy adults, which can be obtained either from the intake of fish or omega-3 supplements. As with every dietary supplement, though, it’s best to consult with your doctor before starting anything.
If you’re looking for the best omega-3 supplements, look no further than Drugstore. We offer the highest-quality supplements available on the market. Call +2349079772482 to place your order.
