Omega-3 Can Help Your Brain Function Better, Among Other Things
We’ve heard all about how important it is to eat enough foods with omega-3. From salmon to avocado and even walnuts, there are plenty of options for you to get enough of the fatty acids. Essentially, omega-3 is a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are very important for several functions in the body. The 3 fatty acids are EPA, DHA, and ALA. EPA and DHA can be found in seafood like fatty fish – salmon, tuna, and trout. ALA is a fatty acid that can be found in other foods like canola and soy oils. Of course, you can take omega-3 as a dietary supplement.
It Can Fight Depression and Anxiety
You might not be aware, but depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the world. Another common disorder is anxiety. What’s interesting is that studies have indicated that those who consume omega-3 regularly are less likely to be depressed. In fact, people with depression or anxiety who took omega-3 supplements showed signs of improvement when it came to their symptoms.
It Can Improve Eye Health
There are three types of omega-3 fatty acids: ALA, EPA, and DHA. DHA is a huge component of the retina in our eyes. When the body doesn’t get enough DHA, vision problems can begin occurring. Interestingly, getting enough omega-3 is also linked to a reduced risk of macular degeneration – of the world’s leading causes of permanent eye damage and blindness.
It Can Improve Risk Factors for Heart Disease
The leading cause of death in the world is heart attacks and strokes. Researchers have seen that fish-eating communities had much lower rates of these diseases. Later on, this has been linked to omega-3 consumption. Ever since, omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to numerous heart health benefits. They can reduce blood pressure, raise “good” HDL cholesterol levels, prevent the formation of harmful blood clots, reduce inflammation, and reduce triglycerides. However, omega-3 has not been proven to prevent heart attacks or strokes.
It Can Fight Age-Related Mental Decline
One of the unavoidable consequences of aging is a decline in brain function. Several studies have linked higher omega-3 intake to decreased age-related mental decline and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
It Might Help You Sleep Better
As we all know, getting enough sleep – and good quality sleep – is an essential part of our health. Studies have shown that those who don’t get enough sleep are at a higher risk of diseases like obesity, diabetes, and depression. It turns out that people with low levels of DHA are linked to having lower levels of the hormone melatonin, which helps you fall asleep. Studies have shown that getting enough omega-3 improves the length and quality of sleep.
It Can Help Your Skin
DHA is a structural component of your skin. It’s responsible for the health of cell membranes that make up a large part of the skin. When the cell membrane is healthy, the skin tends to be soft, supple, and wrinkle-free. EPA is good for the skin as well. It can manage oil production and skin hydration, reduce premature aging, and reduce the risk of acne. On top of all that, omega-3s can help protect the skin from sun damage.
