Omega 3’s are necessary no matter what your age and are critical to so many functions from mental & brain health to heart health.
These good fats, known as essential fatty acids, keep your brain younger and sharp and reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s. They’re not just good for your brain but also lower your risk for arthritis, heart disease and type II diabetes.
They are called essential fatty acids because your body can not make them. You get them from food (or supplements).
What are Omega 3’s? They are a group of poly unsaturated fats found in flax seed, algae, plants and fish.
Did you know that your brain is about 2/3 fat, most of which is the omega-3, DHA? To maintain that level of fat however, you need to consume the foods that contain them.
Omega-3’s improve that transmission of signals to, from and in the brain – a clear channel – meaning your memory is better, recall is easier.
Good fats = healthy cell membranes in the brain and throughout the body.
Studies from the University of Sheffield in England and others have shown a connection between low Omega 3 levels and depression and low levels of serotonin.
Omega 3 fats have been shown to change neurotransmitters, increasing levels of both serotonin and dopamine.
Omega 3’s are critical to brain health no matter how old you are.
Kids – emotional, visual, cognitive and nervous system development, improved reading ability and increased attention span.
Adults – attention, focus, memory, heart, joints, skin, nails, vision
Seniors – slows age related memory loss, eyes, vision, skin, heart but most importantly prevents brain shrinkage (think Alzheimer’s)
While it is always best to get your nutrition from food, it is not always that easy especially when it comes to Omega 3’s.
Prior to World War II, we ate more vegetables, wild meats and wild fish. In addition, all meats used to be abundant in Omega 3’s because they were grass fed. CAFO (concentrated animal feeding operations) beef, which is where almost ALL store bought beef comes from, is all grain fed and devoid of Omega 3’s.
If you ever needed a good reason to buy grass fed beef and pastured butter, this is an incredibly delicious way to get your Omega 3’s.
Please don’t think the farm raised salmon from your neighborhood box store will do the trick. Think wild caught ONLY.
If you are a vegetarian, vegan or don’t have access to pastured beef, you do have options including walnuts, flax seeds and an array of supplements.
More to come on this Miracle Fat.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for medical counseling. Intentional Health and DIY Health & Wellness does not treat, prevent, cure, or diagnose any disease or ailment.
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