Monday, May 7, 2012

Omega 3's - More Important Than You Think.

Most people are deficient in Omega 3 Fatty Acids. This is a problem because they are essential for brain and nervous system function, and they also prevent disease. 


Here's a short run down on why you should consider taking Omega 3 Fatty Acids.


Omega 3's help fight, prevent and even reverse inflammation in the body.
  • Inflammation has been shown to be at the root of chronic disease including asthma, autoimmune disease, allergies, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer's. 
  • Classic inflammation is that which you can see - redness, soreness, etc. Silent inflammation can be deadly.
What is silent inflammation? 
  • Inflammation at the cellular level 
  • Inflammation without pain
  • Origin of chronic disease
Nutrition plays a major part in how the body reacts to disease, stressors and inflammation.


What foods increase inflammation?
- refined, processed carbs (including excess sugar)
- decreased Omega 3's
- increase in vegetable oil intake

High doses of highly refined Omega 3 fatty acids, coupled with a low inflammation diet (clean whole foods diet, or Zone Diet), have been shown to reverse the symptoms of ADHD and Alzheimer's, according to Dr. Barry Sears.
Check out this article about fish oils and ADHD.


It's important to take a highly refined Omega 3 fatty acid.
Certain manufacturers highly refine the fish oil to make sure it is free from toxins including mercury. You can check out this website to cross check your brand of Omega's. www.ifosprogram.com


*Nordic Naturals is a trusted, highly refined brand. You can buy them at most health food stores, or online at Vitacost or Amazon. 


Dr. Sears advises those who take other medications such as Synthroid and insulin, that their dosages may change (meaning, the Omega's are helping!), and to work with your doctor to adjust them.


If you have any questions about the effects of Omega 3's with your medications, please contact your doctor.
Here's another great article on disease and inflammation from Dr. Mark Hyman.


Happy health!


For more information about Omegas or to set up a free health consultation, please email me at theplantbasedhealthcoach@gmail.com




Sources:
Dr. Barry Sears, Zone Diet
Dr. Mark Hyman

2 comments:

  1. Thanks for the good info. I went to the Nordic website and ordered the Ultimate D with high levels of omega 3 essential fatty acids EPA and DHA, in addition to 1000 I.U of Vitamim D3. It's just what I've been looking for! Love the product!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks for sharing! It really is a great product. The Omegas plus Vitamin D is extra great because so many Americans are Vitamin D deficient. Have a good day!

    ReplyDelete