Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for health, but the body does not make these naturally, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. In order to obtain these nutrients, the fatty acids must be derived from the diet through food or supplements. These fatty acids can be found in fish, certain plants and seeds and nut oils; they are important in brain function and blood clotting. Prior to using omega-3 supplements, a health care provider should be consulted to ensure their use is right for you.
Disease Prevention
Omega-3 fatty acids helps reduce the risk of developing a variety of medical conditions. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), fatty acids help lower blood pressure in individuals with hypertension; they can help reduce high levels of cholesterol and reduce the risk of developing heart disease; and lower the levels of triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol levels. UMMC also states that studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids help lower the risk of developing osteoporosis by increasing calcium levels and adding bone strength; however, more research is needed.
Reducing Inflammation
Using omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation and have positive effects on various autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) feature joint inflammation and pain; omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce these symptoms. In RA, taking omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the amount of anti-inflammatory medications used, as well as reduce joint pain and morning joint stiffness, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of SLE may be reduced by taking omega-3 fatty acids, says UMMC, although these supplements have no effect on lupus nephritis, a kind of lupus-related kidney disease.
Cognitive Benefits
There are conflicting studies on the cognitive benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. UMMC states that individuals living with depression showed more improvement when omega-3 fatty acids were taken in addition to antidepressants, versus antidepressants alone, but other studies showed no benefit. Likewise, regarding attention deficit disorder, children with the condition may have low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, but studies show conflicting results about whether supplementation helps to improve behavioral symptoms, UMMC says. Although omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to play a role in cognitive functioning, the Mayo Clinic states that supplementation has not shown any benefits in individuals with dementia, but further investigation is needed.
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