We all know that omega-3 fatty acids are good for us. They help prevent and treat disease. And they keep our organs working right. But most people just do not get enough of them.
If you do not get enough, three new studies may encourage you to get more of them in your diet or through supplements.
The first study confirms what Ive told you many times about omega-3s ability to protect you from mental illness, including dementia.
Researchers in this study followed nearly 8,000. They found that those in the highest 20% of omega-3 consumption had a 35% reduced risk of mental disorders. A moderate consumption of fish (about 4 oz daily) reduced the risk by more than 30%.
In the second study, researchers wanted to know how omega-3 impacted the endothelial cell function of 26 volunteers. Endothelial cells are the cells that line your arteries. Vascular disease first starts with damage to these cells. The researchers found that fish oil significantly improved endothelial-cell function in their arteries.
But that is not all they found. They also discovered that those taking fish oil saw their resting heart rate fall about six beats per minute. The placebo group increased resting heart rate by about three-quarters of a beat per minute on average. Lower heart rate generally means a more efficient circulation system. Your heart does not have to work so hard. And it greatly reduces your risk of heart disease and heart attack.
In the third study, researchers wanted to find out the relationship between omega-3s and lupus. Lupus is an inflammatory condition that can damage arteries, organs, and other tissues. Low-dose omega-3 supplementation significantly reduced disease activity. These subjects also saw improved endothelial function, reduced oxidative stress, and better overall vascular protection.
The healthiest sources of omega 3s are dark, leafy greens, and small, edible seeds such as chia, hemp, flax, and in cucumbers, tomatoes, strawberries, etc. Omega-3s help keep your membranes flexible. They get turned into beneficial hormones that reduce or modulate inflammation. In your brain, both of these effects will improve the stability of your neurons.