Omega is Alpha

Omega-3 and Omega-6: Supplements of the season

Fat. Is it good, is it bad? Saturated or unsaturated? It’s impossible to ignore our obsession with weight. In a nation where approximately 127 million are overweight, the discussion of healthy eating habits and dietary supplements has become all too familiar. Medical research has proven that excessive weight has a direct correlation to heart disease—the leading cause of death for African Americans and Hispanic Americans. This American Hearth Month, The Green Magazine explores the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids by targeting alarming health issues that are on the rise.

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid, one which the human body can not produce on its own. So it is up to us to supplement our bodies with foods and nutrients that provide the three main types of omega-3 fatty acids: docosahexaenoic (DHA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The American Heart Association recommends eating fish with high fat content such as salmon, mackerel and albacore tuna twice a week. After consumption the body transforms ALA to DHA and EPA, the two main omega-3 fatty acids used most by your body. Insufficiency of omega-3 leads to dry skin, poor blood circulation, mood swings, severe fatigue and heart problems. However, it is crucial to maintain a balance of omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6, another essential fatty acid, which is found in nuts, beans and sunflower oil. While developing a diet right for you, consult your physician to find the correct balance of omega-3 and omega-6.

Obesity/
There is no easy fix for losing weight. But with a healthy diet and exercise you can get the wheels rolling in the right direction. Omega-3 fatty acids help to regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels when implemented in a low-fat diet. To make positive steps towards weight loss eat foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.    

Heart Disease/
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, increasing your intake of foods that are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (omega-3 fatty acids) helps to prevent heart disease. Clinical research also shows DHA and EPA in fish oils reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Heart attack survivors with a daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids significantly lower their risk of subsequent heart attacks and strokes.

Diabetes/
Studies have shown that individuals with diabetes generally have low levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) and high triglyceride levels. Fatty acids from fish oil can aid in lowering apoproteins and triglycerides (diabetes indicators), and increase HDL levels. Some researchers suggest that omega-3 fatty acids are useful in combating blood circulation problems associated with diabetes by loosening the rigidity in the walls of veins and arteries.