Omega-3 Fish Oil Can Help Reduce Strokes
Sunday, May 3rd, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed
The benefits of omega-3s include reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke while helping to reduce symptoms of hypertension, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), joint pain and other rheumatoid problems, as well as certain skin ailments and systemic inflammation. Some research has even shown that omega-3s can boost the immune system and help protect us from an array of illnesses including Alzheimer’s disease.
Just how do omega-3s perform so many health “miracles” in people? One way, experts say, is by encouraging the production of body chemicals that help control inflammation in the joints, the bloodstream, and the tissues.
Research has suggested that increasing intake of dietary omega-3 fatty acids may have a number of health benefits on babies whose diets include an abundance of essential fats. Baby diets high in essential fatty acids seem to have an edge in terms of early development. Now new research shows that the same is true for infants born to mothers whose diets contain plenty of this essential fatty acid.
Researchers found that infants born to mothers with higher blood levels of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) at delivery had advanced levels of attention spans well into their second year of life. During the first six months of life, these infants were two months ahead of those babies whose mothers had lower DHA levels.
Dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish oil and certain plant/nut oils. Omega-3 contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), while some nuts (e.g., English walnuts) and vegetable oils (e.g., canola, soybean, flaxseed/linseed, and olive oil) contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA has to be converted to DHA in the body through an enzyme process. If toxins are in the body or a lack of certain vitamins and minerals can hinder or prevent this conversion to DHA… reducing its production. This is why supplementing with Omega-3 that contains DHA has no need for conversion and goes right to work.
Also, evidence from several studies has suggested that amounts of DHA and EPA in the form of fish or fish oil supplements lowers triglycerides, slows the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques, lowers blood pressure slightly, as well as reduces the risk of death by: heart attack, dangerous abnormal heart rhythms, and strokes in people with known heart disease.
This amazing and inexpensive substance has such a diverse benefit to all those that consume it, everybody should be taking at least 1000 milligrams each day minimum. Omega-3 fish oil comes in liquid, softgel, and tablet forms. Look for name brands like Kal, Europharma, and Source Naturals to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase. Quality name brands are available at your local or internet health food store.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Omega 3 fatty acids and its constituents are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure, or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.
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