Chances are you've heard of the benefits of omega fatty acids and their many wondrous health claims, but what's true? Can omega fatty acids inhibit pain and other health risks? Understanding what omega fatty acids are and how to include them in your diet can help you become healthier and feel better.
What are omega fatty acids?
Omega fatty acids are a combination of polyunsaturated acids. DHA, EPA and ALA (docosahexaenoic, eicosapentaenoic and alpha-linolenic acids) are considered essential to health, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.
Health benefits
According to the Mayo Clinic, multiple studies suggest that taking the recommended amounts of omega fatty acids daily in a vitamin or in food has many health benefits. Doctors think that omega fatty acids lower triglycerides; reduce the risk of heart attack, arrhythmias and strokes; lower blood pressure; and slow hardening of the arteries. There are increased risks of bleeding associated with high doses of omega fatty acids, so check with your doctor before taking any vitamins. The Harvard School of Public Health reports that new studies suggest omega fatty acids might help with cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Pain inhibition
Different types of pain can be helped by omega fatty acids. Doctors at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center performed studies that showed omega fatty acids might even work as well as ibuprofen and similar medications. The amount of omega fatty acids taken in the study was high, as much as 2,400 milligrams. A University of Toronto study of nerve pain suggested that omega fatty acids helped reduce this pain significantly.
Forms
The Harvard School of Public Heath suggests a daily consumption of 500 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids per day. However, the heart attack benefits of omegas occur at a higher level, 1,000 milligrams daily. Dietary sources of omega fatty acids include fish, fish oil and plant or nut oils. One rich source of omega fatty acids should be consumed daily in order to be on a healthy track. Great dietary sources of omega fatty acids include fatty fish like salmon, one tablespoon of canola or soybean oil in a dressing, a handful of walnuts, and ground flaxseed.
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