Whether you’re a health nut or not, you’ve probably heard omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in our bodies. The health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids are immense and incredibly important for overall wellness and longevity. Before we explain why they’re vital and the benefits of fatty acids, let’s cover the fundamentals. Don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple
What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of important polyunsaturated fats (poly meaning many).
The three most important types are:
- ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) – found in plants such as leafy greens, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
- DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) – found in marine plants, fatty fish, and fish oil.
- EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) – like DHA, they’re found in marine plants, fatty fish, and fish oil.
Since our bodies can’t produce omega-3s, they’re referred to as “essential fats”, meaning you have to get them from your diet. Over half the North American population is deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, largely due to our westernized diet. Because there are less natural sources of Omega-3 may health professionals recommend dietary supplementation of this nutrient.
Dr Tobias Health Tip: It’s important to note the EPA to DHA ratio when purchasing omega-3 fish oil supplements. We developed our Dr. Tobias Fish Oil Triple Strength with the optimal absorption-aiding ratio of EPA to DHA (800 mg to 600 mg) so you get the most out of every dose.
What About Omega-6 and 9?
Omega-6 and 9 fatty acids are also important dietary fats. However, omega-6 is needed in much smaller amounts. In a westernized diet, omega-6 intake is extremely high in comparison to omega-3 which can cause inflammation.
Foods high in Omega-6 include:
- Eggs
- Nuts and seeds (cashews, almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds)
- Processed cheese
- Store bought salad dressings and mayonnaise
- Vegetable oils (canola, corn, safflower, soybean)
- Foods made with oils high in omega-6 (fast food, chips, snacks, etc.)
Omega-9s aren’t “essential” as they’re produced by your body and are the most abundant fats in majority of our cells
Why Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids Vital?
Omega-3s play a significant role in the development of cell membranes. DHA is arguably the most vital out of the omega-3 fatty acid family. It’s a key structural component of your brain, the retina of your eyes, and numerous other body parts. Without DHA, these body parts wouldn’t function properly
Both omega-3 and omega-6 are used by your body to produce signalling molecules called eicosanoids. Eicosanoids are essential for inflammatory response and regulating blood clots
Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Not only does your body need them to function at optimal levels, they provide a load of additional health benefits. Here’s a list of 10 science-based benefits where omega-3 fatty acids may help:
- Helps prevent depression and anxiety
- Can improve eye health
- Promotes brain health
- Can fight inflammation
- Helps reduce fat in your liver
- Can improve bone and joint health
- Reduce the likelihood hood of heart attack and stroke
- Can alleviate menstrual pain
- Great for healthy-looking skin
- Can help lower blood pressure
The bottom Line
Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for optimal health. If you’re not regularly consuming fatty fish, we highly recommend taking an omega-3 supplement. Adding supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids to your healthy diet is the best way to ensure robust omega-3 intake.
Dr. Tobias Omega 3 Fish Oil contains 2,000 mg of premium quality Omega-3 Fish Oil
with the optimal absorption-aiding ratio of EPA to DHA. It’s sourced from fresh, non-GMO, wild-caught fish. Forbes also rated our fish oil as number one in highest quality and number six in best value for fish oil supplements on the market. The best part? We guarantee NO fishy aftertaste or fish burps! Shop Dr. Tobias Omega 3 Fish Oil Here.
