By Carly A.
Over the past few years Omega-3 fatty acids have become a popular topic, and experts are saying many people need more Omega-3s in their diet. What is Omega-3 exactly and why does everyone need them? Is it even really important or is it the newest health food craze?
Omega-3 fatty acids are in fact “essential acids”. They are called essential because your body needs them to do things like control blood clotting. They can also help prevent heart disease, act as an anti-inflammatory, and provide healthy cholesterol benefits. Unfortunately, your body can’t naturally produce these essential fatty acids. Therefore, we need to get them from our food.
There are a few ways to get Omega 3 fatty acids in your diet:
Fish is the most popular way to get the Omega-3s you need. There are many different ways to get the fatty acids in fish. If you don’t like eating fish, you can take a supplement like fish oil but consuming fish directly is the best way to get Omega-3 fatty acids.
Certain fish provide more benefits than others. Salmon, Mackerel, and Herring are considered some of the best fish to eat if you are looking for Omega-3s. Other fish, such as catfish and tilapia, don't appear to be as healthy because they contain higher levels of unhealthy fatty acids. Also keep in mind that any fish can be unhealthy if prepared in certain ways (baking is better than, say, deep frying it). If the fear of bad quality fish is keeping you from getting those excellent Omega-3s, the Monterey Bay Aquarium website is a helpful resource.
Fish isn’t the only way to get your Omega-3s. You can also get those wonderful healthy fatty acids from seeds such as Flax and Chia. These seeds not only provide you with Omega-3s but add other benefits such as fiber. They are both easy to use can be thrown into a variety of your favorite recipes. These seeds are currently being studied and are believed to help prevent heart disease and cancer.
If you need help figuring out how to add these beneficial essential fatty acids into your diet or if you’re looking for healthy recipes, you can visit with a qualified nutritionist. To schedule with Bonnie Bertano at Amara Wellness Center, click here (select “Initial Visit” to pay online). Bonnie will contact you to schedule an in-office appointment, or via Skype if you are out of town.
If you are looking for a quality fish oil supplement, Nordic Naturals and Natural Factors are two excellent options. They can be found in certain health food stores.
Carly A. is a high school intern at Amara Wellness Center. She graduates in June 2014.
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