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What is Omega-3?

Omega-3 is a type of unsaturated fatty acid; it is essential for the body and cannot be produced naturally by the body. Hence, it can…

Omega-3 is a type of unsaturated fatty acid; it is essential for the body and cannot be produced naturally by the body. Hence, it can only be consumed through diet and health supplements.

Omega-3 acids consist of three types of acids that are, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosa-pentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosa-hexaenoic acid (DHA). ALA is mostly found in plant oils like soybean and canola oils while fishes and other kinds of seafood are rich in DHA and EPA. Out of these three, the most essential acid is ALA, which is convertible into EPA and further, to DHA.

It can also be consumed through supplements in form of capsules, and are made of fish oils, cod liver oil, algal oil, flax seed, krill oil, etc

What are the Benefits of Omega 3?

Heart Health: Researches have shown that eating fish and other types of seafood helps in keeping the heart healthy and inturn preventing heart problems. It helps in reduction of triglycerides which is a blood fat, having a high level of triglycerides can be the reason for heart stroke, seizures and many other heart diseases.
Blood Pressure: It may help in keeping low blood pressure; people who consume are likely to have better results than those who lack omega3.
Skin Health: It is used to treat skin deficiencies; It’s deficiency can lead to rough or dry skin.
Hair Growth: It has shown positive results in hair growth, it helps in providing essential proteins and nutrients to hair follicles which improves the hair growth.
Eye Health: Docosa-hexaenoic acid (DHA) is one out of the Omega3 acids which is a key component for retina and is used for treating various vision issues.

Is it Safe to consume omega 3? Side effects of Omega-3?

It is likely safe to consume and the American Heart Association has approved up to 3 grams of Omega3 as daily dosage. More than that should be guided by the doctor as they consider all aspects of health before prescribing a supplement.

Side effects can be stomach upset, nausea and fishy breath.

Summary

Omega-3 are unsaturated fatty acids found in seafood, plant oils, nuts, seeds, and milk products, they are beneficial for cardiovascular health and can give several other health benefits, 3 grams of the omega3 supplement has been approved safe by AHA, more dosage than that should be consulted with a doctor..