Omega 3, 6, 9
by Gabriele Fantelli
Well.. At last something with the word “fatty” in it that we can actually be happy to include in our diet!! Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids are nutrients necessary to keep our body, and especially our mind, healthy. Omega 3 and 6 are called Essential Fatty Acids because the human body cannot produce them or derive them from other sources. Omega 9 is not Essential because our body can derive it from other unsaturated fats.
What is so great about fatty acids?
- Essential Fatty Acids play a role in almost all of our body functions.
- They are very important for ahealthy heart
- Their properties help prevent damage from saturated fats
- They help lower bad cholesterol levels
- They reduce the risks of strokes and cardiovascular disease
- Reduce inflammation and pain caused by arthritis
- They support and nourish the normal development of cells
- Help organs, especially the brain function and develop properly.
The latest research
It is documented that Omega supplements, used to treat mental health and mood disorders such as Bipolar, Depression, ADHD, are proving to be very successful.
Researches also show that a lack of these Essential fats can be associated with a number of symptoms including:
- Blood cells degeneration,
- Low immune system,
- Depression and other mood related disorders,
- Dry and scaly skin,
- Dandruff.
Omega 3 and 6 - our bodily needs
Omega 3 and 6 are definitely a must-have for our good health. It is very important though that we get a good balance of the two because they do interact with each other and it is only then that we can really benefit in full from their great properties.
O6 for example, promotes inflammation whereas O3 reduces it. It is therefore vital that we do not over-pack ourselves with O6 without the balancing amount of O3.
Most western diets are far too high in their intake of O6 which unfortunately can be responsible of a negative effect on our health. Researchers believe 4:1 in favour of O6, to be a fair balance and 1:2 in favour of O3, a therapeutic balance.
It is also documented that the Mediterranean diet, with its intake of fish, fresh fruit and vegetables, olives, olive oil, nuts and seeds is one of the healthiest. It is also very important that if we are getting our Omega 3 from fish, we make sure it is fresh and comes from unpolluted waters.
This article was published in Uncovered magazine issue 2.
