Omega-3 Matters

How and why to improve your omega-3 levels

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for good health. Your body cannot make these nutrients so they must be included in your diet or included in your supplement regimen.

Why do omega-3s matter?

Omega-3s are important components of the membranes that surround each of your cells, especially the eye, brain and sperm. They have important roles in heart, brain, immune and endocrine system.

Researchers are studying omega-3s and their possible benefits for people with cardiovascular disease, attention deficit disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s and other health conditions.

Most people do not consume enough Omega-3s in their diets. Here are some foods to add to your menu that may help:

The following foods contain high levels of Omega-3s.

Fish (particularly cold-water fatty fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines and anchovies)

Walnuts

Chia Seeds

Flaxseeds

Hemp seeds

Algae & Algal Oil (esp. important for vegans)

Basil

Eggs

Brussel sprouts

Seaweed

Soybeans

Spinach

Broccoli

Cashews

Purslane

Please note, it is important to consume all types of Omega-3s. EPA, DHA and ALA are the most important types. ALA is mostly found in plants. However, it is must be convert to EPA or DHA in the body to be used for something other than energy. This conversion is inefficient and only a small amount is converted to EPA and less to DHA. DHA is necessary in infant brain development and maintaining the adult brain. It is also needed for heart and eye health. EPA plays important roles in reducing inflammation. This is why it is important for vegans to use algal oil or eat algae which has EPA and DHA.

Learn what your levels are

I’m very happy to offer omega-3 testing at the office. The Omega-3 Index Plus Test (provided by OmegaQuant) is a blood test that measures the percentage of Omega-3 fatty acids, Omega 6, AA:EPA ratio and trans fats in red blood cell membranes. This is a simple test using only a single drop of blood.

Improving your Omega-3 levels can help address chronic health issues you may be having as well as prevent future problems.

Make an appointment for a nutritional consultation to discuss an omega-3 test or other health concerns you may be having.