Two crucial Omega 3 fatty acids – EPA and DHA -- are primarily found in certain fish. ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), another omega-3 fatty acid, is found in plant sources such as nuts and seeds. Not only does your body need these fatty acids to function, but also they deliver some huge benefits to your health.
One of the biggest benefits or you could even say uses of these fatty acids are that they keep the fat levels in your blood in check. These control the triglyceride levels in your blood and lower them so that they don’t get up too high and turn out to be a danger. High triglyceride levels could lead to heart disease.
Another major benefit of these fatty acids is that they prevent and help control rheumatoid arthritis. The two fatty acids, EPA+DHA can curb stiffness and joint pain. Omega-3 supplements also seem to boost the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory drugs, so these are an able supplement to any treatment.
A startling and amazing discovery made by researchers was that cultures eating food rich in Omega 3 fatty acids had lower levels of depression among the population. Fish oil was also found to boost the effect of antidepressants and helps prevent the depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder. Visual and neurological development in infants are also greatly boosted by the presence of these fatty acids that seem to be doing good in every possible sphere of health!
Omega 3 fatty acids are also helpful for asthma patients and help lower inflammation, a key component of the disease. So if you have Asthma, you’d better add these to the stack!
As far as possible, try to get these substances from the natural food sources itself and not the artificial supplements. However if you’re unable to manage that, then supplement your diet with Omega 3 rather than missing out on them altogether!