Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid that are present in oily fish and some nuts and seeds. It is essential to the body as it helps help combat inflamation and can help reduce chronic pain states.
It’s benefits also include; promoting a healthy heart – support for concentration, memory and learning – blood sugar health – healthy joints with an increase in joint comfort – fighting signs of aging – healthy brain and nervous system function and development – protection for cell membranes – cholesterol and other blood lipid health – healthy liver function – bolstering your immune system – healthy mood support - optimal skin health.
Omega 3 acts as an anti-oxidant and therefore combats oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs as a result of free radical attack on the body. Free radicals are very reactive molecules that are produced as a byproduct of life (respiration). Oxidative stress leads to silent inflamation in the body that over time causes degenerative changes, pain and diseases.
A whole food diet rich in fruit and vegetable fibre, vegetabal and fish omega 3 are abundant in anti-oxidants. Omega-3 (anti-oxidants) act as the precursor for cell messengers called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins help mediate inflammation in your tissues and are essential for combatting chronic inflammation due to free radical attack.
Omega-3 fatty acids are used in the building and functioning of cell membranes. They are therefore essential for maintaining the integrity of the cell, by influencing the transport of life supporting molecules into and out of the cell, and acting as a barrier to unwanted molecules.
Omega 3 is present in oily fish and krill as the active ingredients eicosapentaenoic acid ( EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid( DHA) and in plants such as flaxseed, hemp, and walnuts as the active ingredient, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Plant based ALA is converted to EPA and DHA by way of an enzyme mediated process. However age and well- being status reduces the efficiency of this conversion process and scientists believe that even though it is important to take in plant based omega-3, it is even more vital to get adequate level of fish or krill based EPA/DHA.
DHA is now thought to constitute the building blocks of the brain, forming about 8% of the brain by weight. This is why it is important for pregnant mothers to maintain an adequate supply during pregnancy. EPA is essential for the functioning of the brain and for nerve stimulation.
If you are suffering from a chronic pain syndrome you may benefit from supplementing with omega -3. If you would like any further advice then feel free to call us at the Fulham Wellness Chiropractic Clinic.
