Omega-3 Deficiency Statistics

Omega-3 fatty acids promote a healthy lifestyle and can be used in treatment for a variety of health conditions. They can be obtained in the diet from eating fish or flaxseed, or by taking supplements available at health food stores. Statistics reflecting deficiencies of omega-3 indicate just how important this nutrient is to good health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that promote a healthy lifestyle. They are not produced by the body and must be absorbed through food or supplements. According to University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids are especially important for the brain and heart. They can help reduce the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure as they reduce inflammation in the body and slow the buildup of plaque in the arteries, according to MayoClinic.com. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important in cognitive function and memory.

Deficiency

Symptoms of an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency include poor memory, fatigue, heart problems, and depression. Pregnant women who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids are at risk of having infants with with vision and nerve problems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. According to a 2009 article published in the newsletter "Possibilities, the Nutrition Coalition," researchers from Harvard University have determined that there are between 72,000 and 96,000 preventable deaths caused by omega-3 fatty acid deficiencies every year. This makes omega-3 deficiency the sixth greatest killer of Americans every year and more detrimental to health than high trans fat intake.

Usage and Dosage

According to University of Maryland Medical Center, one of the richest natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids is fish, including salmon, tuna, and halibut. Adults older than 18 should not take more than 3 g of omega-3 fatty acid per day. The American Heart Association recommends that healthy adults consume fish at least twice a week to avoid developing a deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements are also available at your local health food store. Speak to your health care provider about supplement dosage.

Warnings and Side Effects

Though an omega-3 deficiency can be dangerous, too much of the nutrient can also negatively impact your health. Some species of fish are prone to carry high amounts of dioxins or mercury which can be potentially harmful, according to MayoClinic.com. Mercury accumulates more in fish meat than fish oil, so most supplements contain little to no mercury. Gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, diarrhea, and indigestion have been associated with taking omega-3 fatty acid in large doses. According to the National Institutes of Health, omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with slower blood clotting and can increase the risk of stroke. Children younger than the age of 18 should never be given supplements without a doctor's consent.