Vitality News Health Articles

Because nutrition is important to our lives, it is crucial to know some of the available nutrients beyond minerals and vitamins are and how each of those nutrients impacts our health. One of the most important critical nutrients are fatty acids that contain omega 3. Those fatty acids are a a big part of the building blocks for our brain tissues and nerve cells.

You can find omega 3 acids mainly in fish such as cod, mackerel, and salmon. Fish liver oils also carry omega 3, but you can’t depend on fish oil for your sole source of the nutrient because there is too much vitamin A present. The fleshy portions of the fish contain little or no vitamin A, so they are a better choice.

Salmon is a very good source and a tasty way to include nutritious fatty acids in your diet. Three to five servings weekly is an adequate amount and it is easy to include in a healthy diet. If you are a vegetarian, walnuts are a good source of omega 3, but not as good as fish sources.

One of the many benefits of consuming fatty acids that contain omega 3 or even taking them as a nutritional supplement, has a very healthy beneficial impact on cholesterol levels. In addition, they also help in reducing the level of triglycerides, which are very important for the cardiovascular system and a healthy heart. These fatty acids are sometimes known as “super unsaturated” fats, and, when taken in moderation, are healthy fats.

Another benefit of omega 3 from salmon or other fish or as a supplement is that it makes platelets less “sticky” and helps prevent unwanted blood clots. (Those taking blood thinners or other prescription medications should always check with their doctors before taking any supplements.) This is believed to decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Fish oil capsules are the most common form of supplements for omega 3 fatty acids. The fatty acids are believed to have strong anti inflammatory effects in the body and are now being studied to combat the pain and disability of migraine headaches. Some studies have shown as many as 87% of patients getting migraine relief from these supplements.

The omega 3 fatty acids are part of the building blocks for our nerve cells and brain tissues. The main sources of the fatty acids comes come from cold water fish, such as cod, mackerel and salmon, Three to five servings weekly is adequate. These fatty acids have a good effect on cholesterol levels; help to maintain cardiovascular health, and helps prevent unwanted blood clots. The most common form of supplement is fish oil capsules. The fatty acids are believed to have strong anti inflammatory effects in the body and are now being studied to combat pain for migraine relief.

- Michael Byrd