What Are The Functions Of Omega-3 In Our Bodies?

Omega-3 fatty acids have important functions in the body, including in infant growth and development and treatment of health conditions, making them essential to obtain in the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids used in the body's cells. Health experts agree that this type of fat is one of the healthier types of fat. The structure of omega-3 fat defines unique qualities needed to provide health benefits.

Omega-3 During Infancy

Omega-3 is critical for infants in their growth and development. Specifically, omega-3 is involved in retinal formation in the eyes. Babies need omega-3 for brain development. The fatty acids provide structure to brain cells and allow for signal transport. Fat comprises 60 percent of the brain, which shows why fat is so important for brain development. Infants receive omega-3 fatty acids from breast milk or from infant formula that has been fortified with omega-3s.

Omega-3 and Coronary Heart Disease

In adults, omega-3 provides a more therapeutic benefit than a developmental benefit. Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease. Omega-3 fats assist with regulating blood pressure, improving blood lipids and inhibiting prostaglandins primarily by reducing inflammation and inhibiting platelet aggregation in coronary heart disease, according to a study published in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in January 2000.

Omega-3 and High Triglycerides

High triglycerides put individuals at an increased risk for heart disease. Omega-3s can lower triglycerides by reducing the formation and secretion of very low density lipoproteins (VLDLs). VLDLs are molecules that contain the highest amount of triglycerides in the blood. Omega-3s remove triglycerides from VLDLs and help fat enzymes work more effectively, according to the "Expert Review on Cardiovascular Therapy." Diet is a significant contributor to high triglycerides, and consuming omega-3 fats helps remove unhealthy fats including triglycerides and saturated fats.

Omega-3 and Chronic Diseases

Omega-3 is beneficial for treatment of chronic diseases. Researchers note that omega-3 supplementation improves symptoms in diabetes, inflammation, depression, Alzheimer's disease, and attention deficit disorder. Fatty acid levels decrease as we age, and these low levels frequently are found in Alzheimer's disease patients. A study in a 2010 issue of "Current Alzheimer Research" found fewer learning errors and improved verbal recognition in patients supplementing with omega-3s for six months. The role of omega-3 in depression in unclear; however, it appears that omega-3s function as an anti-inflammatory and in altering fatty acid metabolism. The relationship between omega-3 fatty acids and depression is further pronounced in a review of studies published in "Preventive Medicine" in 2006.

Recommendations for Omega-3

Omega-3 health benefits are recognized by several health organizations, and these organizations developed recommendations for the dietary needs of omega-3. The American Dietetic Association and the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee recommend approximately 500 mg of polyunsaturated fatty acids each day for healthy individuals. Heart disease sufferers should supplement with omega-3 fatty acids daily, according to The American Heart Association. Omega-3 consumption from a diet rich in walnuts, fish, fish oil, flax oil and supplements is essential because our bodies are unable to manufacture it on their own.