Despite the abundance of food in most developed countries, our diets today are still sadly lacking. One key power nutrient missing? Omega-3, an essential fatty acid. And more studies are showing that increasing omega-3 in our diets can pay off in significant health benefits, from weight loss to decreased risk of heart disease.Essential fatty acids are vital to the body’s normal development and function, especially for the brain and eyes. Memory, performance and behavior are all affected by omega-3 intake. If your body doesn’t have enough essential fatty acids, it can cause reduced growth, infertility, impaired wound healing and decreased ability to fight infection.
Deficiencies in omega-3 — specifically DHA — during pregnancy and in babies can cause developmental problems in the nervous system and vision. That’s why some baby formulas now include a DHA supplement.
Not getting enough omega-3 may also lead to many health problems including heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, certain cancers, osteoporosis, premature birth, depression, asthma and diabetes.
Symptoms that you may have an omega-3 deficiency include extreme tiredness, poor memory, dry skin, heart problems, mood swings or depression and poor circulation.
No Fishing Required for Good Nutrition
While fish, especially salmon tuna, is a good source of omega-3, you’ll also find this important nutrient in leafy greens and olive, canola, flaxseed and walnut oils.
The following Reliv products also include omega-3: Reliv Now® for Kids and ReversAge®.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Reliv products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
SOURCES:
- Diabetes Self-Management, Jan/Feb 2008, p. 8-14, Alisa G. Woods, PhD
- University of Maryland Medical Center: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/omega–3–000316.htm