The Oil That Is Essential for Everyone

No doubt you have heard of this extraordinary oil and its role in protecting heart health. But the benefits extend far beyond that. Many studies have demonstrated the benefits of omega-3 for brain health, sleep, mood, joint health, vision, and even weight loss.

What Exactly is Omega-3?

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid (EFA) made up of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). We need both EPA and DHA for good health, but DHA seems to be particularly important.

Essential fatty acids are found in every part of our body – they are components of every single cell membrane. The tissues in our brain, eyes, and nerves are all rich in fatty acids – and our body also uses them in our immune response, and to create essential hormones. We need fatty acids in large amounts, but our bodies can’t produce them ourselves, so we have to get them from our diets.

But the Western diet is high in sugar and refined grains, and low in sources of omega-3 (oily fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel and trout, walnuts, and flaxseeds) means many of us are missing out on these important nutrients[1].

Anti-inflammatory –Chronic inflammation is increasingly recognised as a causative factor in many diseases, fromarthritis to heart disease and some forms of cancer. High DHA fish oil can help prevent this chronic inflammation and may therefore have the potential to prevent some of these chronic illnesses. Rheumatoid Arthritis, well-recognized as an inflammatory disease, has been shown to respond well to omega-3 supplementation.[2]

Healthy Joints -Omega-3 can support healthy joint cartilage, which is essential for joints that move easily and comfortably.

Bright eyes -The tissues in our eyes contain high levels of fatty acids, including omega-3s which we need for normal visual function, and to maintain a healthy retina. DHA appears to be important for visual and neurological development in infants.

Glowing Skin, Hair, and Nails -Because EFAs are such an integral part of our cell membranes, they play an essential role in helping to maintain smooth and vibrant skin, healthy hair, and strong nails. 

Strong hearts and healthy cholesterol –High triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels are a key risk factor for heart disease. TheAmerican Heart Association found that fish oil supplementation can help lower harmful triglyceride levels.[3]Omega-3 fatty acids also help to thin the blood, reducing the likelihood of clots, heart attack, and stroke.

Smart, happy brains – Whether you’re busy at work or cramming at university, you’ll want to take omega-3.DHA is found in high concentration in the brain, and it has an important role in learning, attention, and memory. Infants need it for normal brain development, and it may aid in preventing degenerative diseases of the brain like Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia. Fish oil has even been shown to improve ADHD symptoms in some children.[4]

Our body also uses omega-3 to produce important “feel good” neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) serotonin and dopamine – helping support a balanced mood and even prevent depression.

Weight management -If you’re looking to lose weight or tone up, make fish oil part of your arsenal. Studies have shown supplementation with fish oil can increase fat loss, enhance muscle growth[5], and improve insulin sensitivity[6]. It may even help increase the amount of weight you lose.[7]

Not All Fish Oils Are Created Equal

Fussy about where your food comes from? You should be with your nutritional supplements too. Though there are hundreds of omega-3 heart health supplements on the market, they are not all created equal.