The Benefits of Omega-3 Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in maintaining cell integrity throughout the body.*
Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in keeping cell structures strong throughout the body, but because we can only synthesize a small amount, we need to get these needed fats from our diet. Omega-3s can be found in fatty fish such as tuna or mackerel. But many Americans do not eat fish in high enough quantities.
Instead, we tend to consume more omega-6 fatty acids from canola, sunflower, corn, and soybean oil. That means people often don’t get needed amounts of omega-3s in their diet. This nutritional shortfall can lead to an imbalance in the body between omega-3s and omega-6s.
Structurally, these fatty acids are both polyunsaturated fats. Meaning they’re chemically made of double bonds and they’re not used for storage or energy, like other types of fatty acids. But functionally, they are like oil and water: while omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, omega-6s are pro-inflammatory, which is why we want fewer of these and more omega-3s.[1]
Balance Omega-3s and Omega-6s
Though our bodies need both these fats, the ideal ratio of omega-6s to omega-3s is 4-to-1 or lower. Many Western diets can result in ratios as high as 25-to-1. This imbalance is not ideal for health because it increases inflammation and elevates the risk of chronic diseases.[1]
There are ways to combat this—choose oils with more omega-3s than omega-6s, such as butter, olive and coconut oil and try adding more fish and grass-fed meat to your diet.[1]
Benefits for Eyes, Brain, and Heart
The research on omega-3s continues to show benefits for our eye and brain structures as well as our heart health.[2] Two of the most studied omega-3 fatty acids are
Omega-3 Supplements
While fish oil supplements are among the most common methods used to acquire omega-3s, you can also try adding a fresh fillet of salmon for dinner or a hearty tuna sandwich for lunch.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
