EFA or essential fatty acids are required by our body but are not produced internally, so we have to take them explicitly in our diet. You will be surprised to know that 90% of population in US is deficient in Omega 3 EFA, but are considerable high amount of omega 6 (other essential fatty acids). Before we keep our discussion only to omega3, it is worth mentioning that ideal ratio of omega6 to omega3 is 2:1 but because of the food we eat daily, this figure is as high as 20:1!!!. Thus make most us scarce of this wonderful EFA. Types of omega 3 fats: There are 3 forms of omega 3 fatty acids - alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Of all the three DHA is of much importance. 40% of brain constitutes of DHA!! This very well explains its significance. Though ALA can be converted to DHA and EPA, but this process being very complex and ineffective does not give desired results. This means, we should have rich DHA diet. Food sources: ALA is present in plant sources like flaxseed, nuts, purslane, green vegetables, etc. Whereas fish like salmon, tuna, and halibut are rich in both DHA and EPA. But because of increasing pollution in ocean waters, fish caught from them are also full of contaminations. Thus to avoid adverse effect of toxins and chemicals, well refined fish oil supplements have emerged as best source of increasing the omega 3 levels in blood stream. Benefits: Omega 3 essential fatty acids provide enormous benefits for living a healthy and ail free life. They are known for neurobehavioral benefits i.e. reduces signs of ADHD, ADD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Dyslexia, reduces frequent mood swings and anxiety bouts. Regular consumption of these fats protects heart from heart attacks and strokes by inhibiting plaque to build on the arterial walls, reducing cholesterol and sugar levels, keeping blood pressure under control. Higher levels of omega3 are helpful in reducing inflammation and hence pain in situations like arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), psoriasis, etc. They are known to prevent breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. One word of caution, these benefits can be reaped to maximum extent if the supplement you are taking is effective. A low quality product can do more harm than good. To learn more on benefits of omega 3 essential fatty acids and how to select effective high DHA supplement visit my website Omega 3 Brief. Chuck Blake is an active researcher and consumer of fish oil products.Visit his website http://omega3brief.com today to learn more about the powerful benefits of omega-3 fish oils.
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