Published Articles for UR Smart Magazine

What can Omega-3 Fatty Acids

do for YOUR health?

By Susan M. Poore, RN, CNC, CPLC

UR Smart Magazine Health Contributor

Today, so many of us want to make our health a top priority.  We realize that  "what we do today, we pay for later in life"…investing in your health today is your smartest choice for tomorrow.  So let's look at fatty acids and how they can help us with our biggest investment! 

You read how Omega-3 fatty acids are good for you, however, with so many articles being written on the subject it can be very confusing!  Many of my clients will ask what they are and how these fatty acids can improve their health? 

Fatty Acids can help decrease the inflammation in your body; it also keeps your blood from clotting excessively and maintains the fluidity of your cell membranes.  Researchers have found that low levels of Omega 3 fatty acids increase your risk of heart disease and may also be involved in the pathophysiology of depression.

Some of the following symptoms may indicate the need additional Omega-3 in your diet.  Fatigue, depression, inability to concentrate, eczema, dry, itchy skin & brittle hair and nails, cracked heels, joint pain., lower immunity, poor wound healing and weakness.  

Our brains consist of more than 50% structural fat.  When we consume trans fats, saturated fats and oils high in Omega 6 fatty acids, they interfere with our body's ability to utilize the good fatty acids we need.  Stay away from these.  I teach my clients to read their food labels.  When you really know what you are consuming, you make better choices.  Avoid any product that has been "hydrogenated" or "partially hydrogenated".  Read the ingredient section of the label, just because it says 0% trans fat…it's not always true.   Many companies will make the serving size smaller so that it meets the requirement to say "0% trans fat".

Our brains need the DHA that is in the Omega 3's.   Researchers are finding that when fatty acids have been added to the diet in the right amounts that brain functions improved.   Three of the most important Omega-3 fatty acids are;  Alpha-linolenic  (ALA)  (essential – your body is unable to manufacture on its own), Eiosapentaenoic acid  (EPA) and  Docosahexaenoic acid  (DHA).

Some great sources of Omega-3 are:  Flaxseed & flax oil, Walnuts, Salmon, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Scallops, Sardines, Spinach, Romaine Lettuce, Tuna, Summer & Winter Squash, Tofu.   Studies have shown that cultures that consume fish have better overall health, including mental health.

Not sure how much additional Omega 3 you should be consuming?   It really should be evaluated on an   individual basis. When I make recommendations to my clients, I look at their medications, their consumption of overall Omega 3 foods in daily diets, their lifestyle and any symptoms they may be experiencing.  Getting a professional opinion always helps if you are not sure.  Prevention is definitely cheaper than treatment.   Investing in your health today is your smartest choice for tomorrow!

"Change Your Health, Change Your Life!"