Most people are looking at alternative ways to increase their health. Omega 3 is one of those alternative ways. It is funny to think that natural oils, minerals and vitamins, which have been used for thousands of years, are considered in modern times as alternative. Omega oils are used for an array of conditions. Fortunately most Chiropractors will recommend this oil.

Omega 3 oils contain the very important docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that are important in preventing and managing heart disease. Omega 3 oils are most commonly found in fish, but there is a vegan option, Flax seed oil.

Omega-3s play important roles in the body as components of the phospholipids that form the structures of cell membranes. DHA, in particular, is especially high in the retina, brain, and sperm. In addition to their structural role in cell membranes, omega-3s (along with omega-6s) provide energy for the body and are used to form eicosanoids. Eicosanoids are signaling molecules that have similar chemical structures to the fatty acids from which they are derived; they have wide-ranging functions in the body’s cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, and endocrine systems. Findings show omega-3 fatty acids may help to:

• Reduce inflammation
• Improve brain health
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduce triglycerides (Bad oils)
• Slow the development of plaque in the arteries
• Reduce the chance of abnormal heart rhythm
• Reduce the likelihood of heart attack and stroke
• Lessen the chance of sudden cardiac death in people with heart disease

Side effects from omega-3 fish oil may include:

• A fishy taste in your mouth
• Fishy breath
• Stomach upset
• Loose stools

A deficiency of essential fatty acids—either omega-3s or omega-6s—can cause rough, scaly skin and dermatitis. Plasma and tissue concentrations of DHA decrease when an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency is present. However, there are no known cut-off concentrations of DHA or EPA below which functional endpoints, such as those for visual or neural function or for immune response, are impaired. Overall, most of these organizations recommend a minimum of 250–500 mg combined EPA and DHA each day for healthy adults. However, higher amounts are often recommended for certain health conditions.

For more information, please contact your Chiropractor

Regards

Dr Gert Ferreira

Chiropractor in Centurion