Omega-3 Fats

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Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of essential fat.

Essential fats cannot be made by the body and must be taken in through our diets.

Omega-3's are needed to perform many functions in our body, which include controlling blood clotting and building cell membranes in the brain.

What is Omega-3 Fat?

Omega-3's are primarily found in fatty fish.

Omega-3's help to reduce inflammation, therefore decreasing the risk of heart disease. They also help to treat conditions associated with inflammation, such as asthma, Alzheimer's and dementia.

Decreases risk for heart disease and heart attacks

Increases "good cholesterol" (HDL)

Decreases "bad cholesterol" (LDL) and triglycerides

Health Benefits of Omega-3's

Lowers blood pressure

Reduces inflammation and helps to treat conditions associated with inflammation

Fish: Anchovies, Herring, Lake Trout, Mackerel, Salmon, Sardines, Tuna

Tofu and other forms of soybeans

Sesame seeds, ground flax seeds, chia seeds

Foods High in Omega-3's

Flax seed oil

Walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts

Put this into practice for you:
What is one Omega 3 rich food that you can add to your diet today?

References:

Swanson, et al. "Omega-3 Fatty Acids EPA and DHA: Health Benefits Throughout Life." OUP Academic, Oxford University Press, 5 Jan. 2012, academic.oup.com/advances/article/3/1/1/4557081

Yashodhara, et al. "Omega-3 Fatty Acids: a Comprehensive Review of Their Role in Health and Disease." Postgraduate Medical Journal, The Fellowship of Postgraduate Medicine, 1 Feb. 2009, pmj.bmj.com/content/85/1000/84.short