How Omega 3 Fish Oil Supports a Balanced Diet and Overall Wellness
Eating a balanced diet is essential for good health, and it’s important to get the right nutrients in. One nutrient that has become particularly popular is Omega 3 fish oil, known for its many benefits including heart support and brain function improvements. But how does it work within a balanced diet and what does it actually do for overall wellness?
That’s exactly what you’ll learn in this post, as we uncover what Omega 3 fish oil is, why it’s needed, and how it can benefit your health when included with an already balanced diet.
What is Omega 3 Fish Oil?
Omega 3 fish oil is a substance that is derived from the tissues of oily fish. The oil is then used as a dietary supplement that is taken to help maintain and promote good health. Omega 3 fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acids which are found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna (oilier species). This particular fatty acid is a polyunsaturated fat that has been shown to have great benefits to overall body health when consumed by humans.
Omega 3s are mostly found in fish but can also be found in some plant-based foods like flaxseeds and chia seeds. However, the Omega 3s in plants are slightly different than the ones found in fish and your body may not use them as readily.
Omega 3 Fish Oil in a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet is one that includes all different kinds of foods that provide the nutrients your body needs. These nutrients are protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Omega 3 fish oil falls into the fat category but it’s a “healthy fat.”
Your body needs healthy fats because they help you absorb certain vitamins (like A, D, and E), give you energy, and support your cells to grow. When you include the best fish oil supplement in your diet you make sure you’re getting the right kind of fat to keep your body working right.
The Role of Omega 3 Fish Oil in Heart Health
One of the most well-known benefits of Omega 3 fish oil is its positive effect on heart health. Studies have shown that Omega 3s can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
1. Lowering Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. High levels of triglycerides can lead to heart disease. Omega 3 best fish oil has been shown to lower triglyceride levels, which in turn reduces the risk of heart-related problems. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that people who took Omega 3 supplements had significantly lower triglyceride levels compared to those who didn’t.
2. Reducing Inflammation
Chronic inflammation in the body can lead to the development of many diseases, including heart disease. Omega 3 fish oil is well known for its anti-inflammatory effects that help lower inflammation and protect the heart.
3. Supporting Blood Vessel Health
Omega 3s help keep blood vessels flexible and reduce the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This can prevent blockages that lead to heart attacks or strokes.
Omega 3 Fish Oil and Brain Function
Your brain is actually made up of about 60 percent fat and Omega 3 fatty acids, specifically DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are a major component of that. In fact, DHA has been found to be so important for brain development and function that it’s believed obtaining enough through diet may be critical in avoiding many neurological disorders. Because your body can’t produce sufficient amounts of DHA on its own you have to get it from the food you eat or dietary supplements.
1. Improving Memory and Cognitive Function
Omega 3 also has a positive effect on mental health. It is an essential nutrient for the brain and helps to support normal brain function and development. Studies have shown that Omega 3 can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
2. Supporting Mental Health
Omega 3s also play a role in regulating mood. Some studies suggest that people who don’t get enough Omega 3s are more likely to experience depression and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that Omega 3 supplements helped reduce symptoms of depression in some people.
Omega 3 Fish Oil for Eye Health
Omega 3 fish oil is also known to be good for eye health. A type of Omega 3 called DHA makes up a major part of the retina which is responsible for visual functions. Having enough DHA in your diet will help protect against age-related eye problems, especially so when you are older.
1. Reducing the Risk of Age-Related Eye Problems
As people age, they have a higher risk for eye conditions such as macular degeneration. Macular degeneration can cause vision loss in older adults. Omega 3s may help protect the eyes from this condition. Some research has shown that people who get more omega-3s are less likely to develop macular degeneration as they age.
2. Supporting Tear Production and Eye Comfort
Omega 3 fish oil may help those with dry eyes find some relief. Omega 3s are believed to help support the production of tears. This can keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
Omega 3 Fish Oil and Joint Health
Omega 3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which make them particularly helpful for people dealing with joint pain or stiffness.
1. Reducing Joint Pain and Stiffness
Omega 3s can help reduce inflammation in the joints, which causes pain and stiffness. This is especially important for people who suffer from conditions like arthritis. In fact, some studies have indicated that Omega 3 supplements lead to a reduction in symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. This means that they will be able to move around more easily.
2. Supporting Bone Health
In addition to reducing inflammation, Omega 3s may help support bone health. Some studies have suggested that Omega 3s can help increase calcium absorption in the bones, which can improve bone strength and reduce the risk of fractures.