Omega 3 is a fat or also known as a lipid. The primary function of fat is to provide energy for the body. Pound for pound fat contains more energy in the form of calories than protein and carbohydrates. There are three types of fats, triglycerides, cholesterol, and phospholipids. Fatty acids provide energy to organs including the heart as well as muscles. Fatty acids are the building blocks of cell membranes and energy storage for the body.
Omega 3 fish oil contains the two most active ingredients, EPA and DHA. There are many products on the market today claiming to have the correct amount of each essential fatty acid, but noone really knows how much of each you should ingest. But science is making it more and more clear that we need these essential fatty acids on a daily basis because they aid in so many different stages of life.
DHA is now thought to constitute the building blocks of the brain. DHA is added to some infant formulas, as an infant requires a lot of DHA in the first two years of life to support the growth of the brain. EPA is slightly different from the DHA. This essential fat is considered to play an important role in brain and nerve stimulation. EPA has shown to have mood enhancement properties. In one study, after only four weeks, six out of 10 patients receiving EPA had significantly reduced symptoms of depression.
So how do I get my Omega 3?There are several ways to increase your intake of Omega 3 fatty acids. These Omega 3 fatty acids can be taken in by eating more fish, walnuts,
flaxseed oil, and green leafy veggies.
There are several symptoms to indicate if you are not getting enough Omega 3, including:
fatty food cravingsleg crampsear wax buildupbrittle fingernailsirritabilitycracked healsslow wound healingyeast infections.
High grade Omega 3 fish oil has been shown to fight agains depression. Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid that cannot be produced by the body. It is called an essential fatty acid because it is essential for correct balance and function of most vital organs and hormones.