Dietary fats are an important source of energy and nutrients. Omega-3 fats, abundant in some fish, are called essential fatty acids because they cannot be made by the body but must be introduced into the body through diet. A diet deficient in omega-3 fats can lead to health challenges; therefore, including omega-3 fats in the diet is considered a healthy lifestyle choice.
Identification
Omega-3 fatty acids are also called polyunsaturated fatty acids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The term "omega-3" refers to the structure of the molecule. Omega-3 fats are identified by the number of chemical bonds in the carbon structure.
Significance
The amount of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet is significant to overall health. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the typical American diet tends to be deficient in omega-3 fatty acids. Proper ratio of omega fats in the diet plays an essential role in health because omega-3 fats tend to decrease inflammation. Therefore a diet that is low in omega-3 fats will tend to create inflammation in the body and can cause pain, dysfunction and health problems.
Sources
Omega-3 fatty acids are important to human health because they decrease inflammation and support cardiovascular function. They can help reduce disease outcomes such as sudden death, cardiac death, and myocardial infarction, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Omega-3 fats can be found in fish such as salmon, tuna, and halibut, other seafood including algae and krill, some plants, and nut oils, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. According to the MayoClinic.com, fatty fish, such as salmon, herring and tuna contain the most omega-3 fatty acids.
Health Benefits
The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that a proper balance of omega-3 fats and other fatty acids is required in the diet. The Office of Dietary supplements states that it is not known whether a desirable ratio of omega-3 fatty acids exists, or to what extent a low intake of omega-3 fatty acids affects the body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, clinical evidence regarding the benefits of omega-3 is strongest for heart disease and problems that contribute to heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids may also be helpful in the treatment of conditions including high cholesterol, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoporosis, depression, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, skin disorders, asthma, macular degeneration, menstrual pain and forms of cancer.
Expert Insight
Research compiled by the Office of Dietary Supplements shows that omega-3 fatty acids are important to the overall health of the individual. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the diet and therefore should be consumed in the form of fatty fish or through a supplement. More research is needed to strengthen the results of recent research and reveal all benefits of omega-3s.
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