Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy, anti-inflammatory fats that have an important role in the function of our eyes, brain, heart, and skin.
EYE HEALTH BENEFITS:
Omega-3s have a neuroprotective effect on brain & retinal tissues
People with diets low in omega-3 fatty acids had a higher risk of developing Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) therefore increasing dietary intake of Omega-3s is beneficial
Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory effects and can mitigate inflammatory conditions such as Dry Eye and Blepharitis
WHOLE-BODY BENEFITS
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the risk of heart disease & mortality and may even have implications in reducing the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's Disease
The average modern diet has an excessively high proportion of Omega-6 (pro-inflammatory) to Omega-3 (anti-inflammatory)... a ratio of 16:1! It is this imbalance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 that contributes to chronic inflammation and its subsequent negative health effects. Cardiovascular disease, metabolic diseases (e.g. obesity), and cancer are all related to chronic inflammation.
Therefore it is important to try to reduce unhealthy Omega-6 fats in our diet in addition to increasing healthy Omega-3s. This requires a permanent lifestyle change.
What to Eat:
DHA & EPA are found in cold-water fish
ALA is the precursor to DHA & EPA, and can be found in flax seeds, walnuts, soy, canola oil, wheat germ. The body can convert ALA to DHA & EPA but it is not very efficient.
Supplementation with a good quality fish oil can be helpful in rebalancing the Omega 6:3 ratio
What to Avoid:
Omega-6 Fats: meat products, processed vegetable oils
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