Omega−3 fatty acids are important for normal metabolism. Omega-3 fatty acids (Alpha-linolenic acids) are essential fatty acids that play an important role in brain function and may help fight against cardiovascular disease.
What are OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS?
What makes omega-3 fats so important to our body?
Omega-3 fats are an integral part of the cell membranes in our body and they help to affect the function of the cell receptors in the membranes.
They help to provide the starting point for making hormones which regulate blood clotting, contraction and relaxation of the artery walls, and inflammation.
They also bind to receptors in the cells that regulate genetic function. Due to this, omega 3 fats prevent heart disease and stroke, may help to control lupus, eczema and rheumatoid arthritis, and play a protective role in cancer and other conditions.
There are 3 types of Omega-3 fatty acids:
- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
Which foods are high in omega 3?
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in foods such as:
- Flaxseed oil
- Leafy vegetables
- Flaxseed
- Walnut
- Soybean
- Chia Seed
- Fish
- Caviar
- Sardine
- Salmon
- Oyster
- Mackerel
- Col Liver Oil
- Herring
- Anchovies
- Albacore
- Rainbow Trout
- Catfish
But there are potential side effects if you consume too much omega-3 fatty acids:
- High Blood Sugar
- A fishy taste in your mouth
- Bleeding
- Low Blood Pressure
- Fishy breath
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset
- Acid Reflux
- Stroke
- Loose stools
- Vitamin A Toxicity
- Nausea
- Insomnia