Description
Understanding Dietary Fat Ratios
Humans need several different kinds of fat for optimal health. Two of these, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, are essential fatty acids (EFAs) and must be gotten from the diet. Our hunter-gatherer ancestors had diets that were fairly balanced between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. However, the average diet has become very high in omega-6 fats from seeds and oils but low in omega-3s from fish.
Omega-6 fats compete with omega-3 fats for certain enzymes. Too many omega-6 fats effectively cancel out the positive effects of omega-3s, resulting in a variety of health problems, including insulin resistance, obesity, heart conditions, and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Correcting the imbalance through food and supplements can be beneficial for the entire body. For people who don’t eat fish regularly, safe supplementation is critical. Taking several grams of a purified omega-3 blend can go a long way towards repairing EFA status.
Who Can Benefit From Omega-3 Liquid?
- If you don’t eat fatty fish on a regular basis, you may benefit from supplementing with fish oil. Even if fish is a regular part of your diet, supplementation at higher levels may have therapeutic benefits.
- Individuals who have high blood pressure, high blood lipids, or cardiovascular disease may benefit from fish oil supplementation.
- Aging individuals with low bone density or who are dealing with cognitive decline may improve outcomes with EPA and DHA supplementation.
- Individuals with depression, mood disorders, or other psychological issues, such as bipolar or schizophrenia, can benefit from fish oil.
- Fish oil may help restore metabolism in individuals with obesity or insulin resistance.
- People who have a high degree of stress, particularly those with work-related stress or anxiety, may find fish oil beneficial.
- Fish oil may allow athletes and fitness-minded individuals to improve performance and muscle recovery.
- Children require EPA and DHA for brain development. Supplementation has been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD in youth.
- Pregnant women need to ensure adequate fish oil consumption for healthy growth and development of the fetus. Supplementation with a purified fish oil may be particularly useful if you are avoiding fish due to mercury or other chemical contamination.
Who Should Not Take It?
Omega-3 fatty acids can have a blood thinning effect. They also lower blood pressure and can affect cholesterol levels in some individuals. Although the effects are rare, always speak to your doctor prior to supplementing.
If nursing or pregnant, speak with a doctor prior to supplementing.
