Omega-3 fatty acids are the unsung heroes of health. You’ve probably heard about them before and you’ve probably even tried taking some at some point. But in case you’re still on the fence about whether or not you really should be taking these essential fatty acids, here are 5 benefits that should definitely be on your radar. here are many other ways that Omega-3s can improve your health, including the following:
5 Benefits of Omega-3s That Should Definitely Be on Your Radar:
1. Protects against depression, anxiety and suicide – Research has shown that Omega-3 deficiencies are associated with a higher risk for depression, suicidal behavior and bipolar disorder.
2. Improves brain function – DHA, the type of Omega-3 found in fish oil, is necessary for normal brain development. Omega-3s are critical for brain function, especially as you age. They’re believed to protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia by keeping brain cells healthy and communicating with one another effectively.
3. Protects against heart disease – A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that people who consumed fish once a week or more had a 52% lower risk of sudden cardiac death than those who didn’t consume fish at all.
4. Beneficial effect on mood disorders such as ADHD, autism and bipolar disorder – Children with ADHD have been found to have lower levels of DHA than healthy children along with lower levels of EPA (another type of Omega-3). Research shows that these omega-3 fatty acids can help ease depression symptoms by affecting chemicals in the brain linked to mood regulation, such as serotonin and dopamine.
5. Reduce inflammation – Inflammation is the body’s response to harmful stimuli such as bacteria and pathogens, but it doesn’t always discriminate between “good” and “bad” things. It can also be triggered by environmental factors like stress, lack of exercise and poor diet. Omega-3s have been shown to reduce inflammation by suppressing the production of inflammatory compounds in the body.
