What Are Omega 3 Fatty Acids And Where Do They Come From?

Omega-3 fatty acids are in a group called "essential fatty acids." Despite the fact that they are required for good health, the body cannot produce these essential fatty acids naturally. This means that they need to be obtained in the diet from a variety of certain foods.

Those foods that contain Omega-3 fatty acids include:

* Salmon
* Tuna
* Halibut
* Sardines
* Lake Trout
* Mackerel
* Algae and krill
* Nut oils

Omega-3 fatty acids play a large and crucial role in the function of the brain and they are also important for the heart. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week.

However, it should be noted that pregnant women should not eat several types of fish including king mackerel, shark and swordfish. They should also limit their tuna, herring and salmon in take. Because of this, these women can take Omega-3 fatty acids as a supplement as long as it is certified to be mercury free. Mercury is the main reason that pregnant women should limit their intake of seafood.

Extensive research on Omega-3 fatty acids shows us that they can reduce inflammation and help prevent many serious conditions including:

* Heart disease
* Cancer
* Arthritis

They also play a large part in memory and brain performance. It has also been suggested that infants who do not receive adequate Omega-3 fatty acids from their mothers during pregnancy may have nerve and vision problems.

It is possible to be deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids. Deficiency symptoms include fatigue, poor memory, dry skin, mood swings, depression, poor circulation and heart problems.

It is important that both Omega-3 fatty acids and Omega-6 fatty acids are part of a regular diet. Together, these two fatty acids work to promote general overall good health. Your diet should including approximately two to four times more Omega-6 fatty acids than Omega-3 fatty acids, as an imbalance in these two essential fatty acids may cause an increase in inflammatory disorders. This is because Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, but Omega-6 fatty acids promote inflammation.

For adults who have no history of heart disease, it is recommended that they eat fish twice a week to meet their recommended intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. For individuals with a history of heart disease, it is suggested that they take an Omega-3 fatty acid supplement, such as fish oils.