The most popular system of categorizing oil lies in the omega system. Udo Erasmus, the author of "Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill," explains that particular sub-groups of oils take their names from the point at which the layout of hydrogen and carbon atoms along their spine changes. Each type of fat may benefit human health, with some seemingly required more than others.
Omega 3
A polyunsaturated oil, you need omega 3 from the diet on a regular basis for optimum health as you cannot manufacture any of these compounds. Charles Poliquin, a Canadian strength coach and nutritionist who has worked with a wide range of Olympic athletes, explains that most individuals do not get enough omega 3 oils and that increased consumption of these compounds can reduce inflammation, improve mood and increase fat burning. Omega 3s exist in flaxseed and oily fish.
Omega 6
Another essential oil, Dr. Joseph Mercola points out that you will find omega 6s in vegetable and soy oil. The physician and author of "The No-Grain Diet," explains that you cannot manufacture any of these oils and must obtain them from the diet, but most people already get more than enough of them in processed foods.
Omega 9
Omega 9 oils contain just one unsaturated section on their carbon spine, which explains why they are also called mono-unsaturated. Erasmus explains that your body can produce these types of oils, although he still believes foods such as olive oil to provide health benefits. Olives, together with the oil found in peanuts, represent common source of omega 9s.
Omega 3 Deficiencies
According to Erasmus, 99 percent of the Western population requires more omega 3s in their diets. He believes the current widespread deficiencies on a low intake of fish and flaxseed, the most concentrated sources of omega 3, and states that the rates of many chronic diseases would drop significantly if society consumed more of these important nutrients.
Ratios
Simply adding omega 3 to your diet may not provide all the benefits associated with the healthy oils; you may also need to consider your intake of omega 6s as well. Mercola highlights how humans have evolved on an omega 3-to-6 ratio of around 1-to-1 and how the ratio today stands at a ratio of 20-to-1. Balancing your intake of omega 3 oils to their omega 6 counterparts in a 1-to-1 ratio may prove highly beneficial.
References
- Charles Poliquin: Fish Oil
- Mercola.com: Omega 3 Oils
- "Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill"; Udo Erasmus Ph.D.; 1986.
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