Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids both belong to the polyunsaturated family of dietary fat. With the increased processing of foods and usage of refined vegetable oil, the modern Western diet has become increasingly reliant on omega-6 fatty acids. The Center for Genetics, Nutrition and Health states that humans evolved on a diet with a ratio close to 1-to-1 of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids. However, the modern Western diet is closer to 15-to-1. This ratio greatly increases the risk of adverse health effects.
Tips and Warnings
- Minimize overall intake of processed foods containing unhealthy amounts of vegetable oils. In addition to being one of the main reasons for an unbalanced omega-6-to-omega-3 intake, most of these products are nutritionally empty and high in calories, sugar and sodium. Control your meat intake. Most corn-fed animal products contain high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. If possible, choose organic vegetarian fed meat products, which contain a more balanced fatty acid profile.
- Always consult your physician before starting any diet plan.
Things You'll Need
- Fatty Fish (or Fish Oil)
- Flaxseeds
- Walnuts
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