No diet is complete without omega-3 fatty acids: these polyunsaturated fats are crucial for metabolic health. What is the reason for this? And what should you look for in your diet?
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids. Important for us are the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, which are mainly found in fish and algae, as well as the plant-based ALA. They are built into the cell membranes throughout the body, ensure the elasticity of the cells and change the viscosity and permeability of the membranes. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for the enzymes, receptors and transport proteins in the cell wall and also act as signalling substances.
What omega-3s can do
Omega-3s play are vital for the health of our cells and support a variety of body systems! The list of benefits is long – and growing, thanks to recent research.
Anti-inflammatory effects: Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the production of inflammatory molecules such as cytokines and prostaglandins. Thus, omega-3 fatty acids can help relieve the symptoms of chronic inflammation.
Healthy brain function: DHA, one of the most important omega-3 fatty acids, is crucial for brain development and function. It is an essential component of cell membranes in the brain and plays a role in maintaining their fluidity and integrity.
Heart health: The cardiovascular benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA have been extensively researched: they help lower triglyceride levels and blood pressure, and support overall heart health.
Healthy eyes: DHA is highly concentrated in the retina of the eye, where it plays a crucial role in the development and function of vision.
Mood: Early studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may also contribute to mental health and brighten your mood.
Pay attention to the "omega balance"!
For omega-3 fatty acids to work in the body, the ratio between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids must be right. Our metabolism processes omega-3 and omega-6 with the same enzyme (delta-6 desaturase and delta-5 desaturase). Too much of omega-6 means that this enzyme is no longer available to process omega-3 and the body cannot absorb it. Omega-6 is mainly found in meat and animal fats, sunflower oil, but also in many processed foods. On average, our food contains 10 to 20 times more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids. The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 should actually be between 1:1 and 5:1! The main source of omega-3 fatty acids is fatty fish such as salmon or mackerel. However, omega-3 fatty acids are also found in smaller quantities in nuts and seeds, e.g. linseed.
Omega 3 food supplements
You don't eat fish on a regular basis? Then a high-quality food supplement with fish oil may be useful. Unicity's Omega Life-3 Resolv contains a combination of concentrated fish oil with a high content of unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, combined with the essential amino acid L-arginine, wintergreen oil and vitamin E. Omega Life-3 Resolv is manufactured using a process patented by Unicity to increase the production of resolvins, which the body derives from omega-3 fatty acids. Give it a try!
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