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| Photo courtesy of newthoughtgeneration.com |
Omega 3 fatty acids are extremely important for your health.
These fatty acids can be found in things like fish, leafy greens and chia
seeds. They benefit our bodies greatly by helping to reduce the chances of
disease and even improving brain function.
Many people are concerned about “fat” and therefore hesitant to
add Omega 3s into their diets - but what they don’t realize is that these fats
are actually beneficial for their bodies to ingest.
Regular Fat vs.
Essential Fatty Acids
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| Photo courtesy of nutrasique.com |
Our bodies cannot create essential fatty acids, or EFAs, on
their own, which is why we need to consume foods with them or take a vitamin supplement. Some foods rich in EFAs include:
●
Seafood - especially wild salmon and mackerel
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Eggs
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Walnuts
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Beans
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All types of cheese
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Edamame
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Flaxseed (also oil)
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Chia seeds
●
Wild rice
Fatty acids help our entire immune system to function properly.
They are digested by the body and used to coat the central nervous system and
keep us from getting sick. Regular fat is not digested by our bodies, but
rather stored.
This stored-up fat can eventually cause serious health problems
- which is why a diet low in fat and high in Omega 3 fatty acids is highly
recommended.
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| Photo courtesy of http://lindawagner.net |
Quick tip: If you’re
looking for a healthy way to add EFAs to your diet, consider making a “green”
smoothie. Spinach, chia seeds, milk (any kind you like), ice and honey can be
added into a blender and quickly mixed together for a ton of nutrients all at
once!
Ways Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Can Benefit You
●
Regulate emotions and mood
●
Ward off diabetes
●
Ease arthritis pain
●
Lower hypertension
●
Preserve heart and bone health in menopausal women
Omega-3 fatty acids have been known to prevent a wide variety
of diseases because of their anti-inflammatory properties. This reduction of
inflammation takes a lot of pressure off of your blood vessels which may
prevent heart disease. They can also lower your blood pressure - and all these
things combined reduce your chances of having a heart attack, especially if you
have had cardiovascular issues before.
Besides that, they can prevent blood clots - especially in
women who have used birth control for a long period of time. They
also increase fertility levels if a woman is looking to get pregnant and can
prevent the fetus from developing unwanted diseases while in the womb.
In menopausal women, these healthy fats reduce hot flashes and
increase brain memory function. It also helps mood by helping the part of our
brain that regulates emotions function more easily.
Omega-3s are a great natural way to help prevent and ease a lot
of pain and illness in your life. Omega-3 fatty acids can help women of all
ages. They are safe to take on a daily basis and can help your body function
and perform to the best of its ability. It may even help you avoid that dreaded
cold that comes around the office every couple of months.
Marcele De Vivo is a
freelance writer in the Los Angeles area. She writes on everything from
technology to travel, but as a mom of three she has a special interest in
health & wellness topics.
Disclaimer: This article is contributed by a Guest Blogger. Ping of Health does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this article. Ping of Health disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
