For decades researchers have been investigating the importance of omega-3 fatty acids in our diets.  It has been shown that its inclusion in our diet can have benefits from cellular inflammation to reducing risk of heart disease.  Below is some basic information about the topic.

here sans-serif; color: black; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Benefits of Omega 3 Fatty Acids (WebMd)

·         Lower elevated triglyceride levels

·         Reduces stiffness and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis

·         May reduce the symptoms of depression

·         Improve prenatal neurological development 

·         Assist in the treatment of asthma

·         Reduce ADHD symptoms

·         May protect against Alzheimer's disease and dementia

Sources of Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Fish sources:

There are concerns with the consumption of fish, such as mercury and PCB contamination, as well as renewability of the sources of fish, and farming concerns.  However, these considerations should be managed and not treated as reason to remove fish as an important part of one’s diet. With that being said, the following is a list of fish that balance these concerns well.

·         Wild Alaskan Salmon

·         Arctic Char

·         Atlantic Mackerel

·         Sardines

·         Black Cod (Sablefish)

·         Anchovies

·         Oysters

·         Rainbow/Golden Trout

·         Albacore Tuna

·         Muscles

Plant sources:

For those individuals that fish is not an option, such as strict vegetarians, there are many plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids to choose from.  Even those that eat fish may want to acquire part of their omega-3 consumption from the following sources to reduce the possible fish contaminants.

·         Flaxseed

·         Chi a seeds

·         Walnuts

·         Soy

·         Pumpkin

·         Canola

·         Hemp seeds

·         Cauliflower

·         Hummus

·         Brussels sprouts

Supplements:

While nutritional supplements can often make up for nutritional deficiencies in ones diet it is not wise to consider them a replacement for a diet consisting of a variety of foods.  If it is deemed that one’s diet is deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, your doctor should be consulted as to which supplement may meet your needs.

Consider scheduling a consultation with Dr White to discuss further how the proper consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can impact the quality of your life.