Can you tell me about omega-3 fatty acids? Where can I find them and what do they do? I've heard they're really important.
Omega-3 fatty acids are part of the group of "essential fatty acids," meaning ones we need in our diet. The primary one used by humans is EPA, or eicosapentanoic acid. It is commonly found in deep saltwater fish, such as salmon, cod, mackerel and tuna. Fresh flax oil is also high in EPA, while containing the other class of essential fatty acids, omega-6. The oils are vital to the formation of prostaglandins (among other things), extremely important substances in themselves.
Today's low-fat diets may not contain enough essential fatty acids, especially for women. If EFAs are in short supply, dry skin, menstrual abnormalities and fatigue can be among the first symptoms.
It should be remembered, however, that these oils are unsaturated. This causes an increase in free radicals in the body. Those are "bad guys" ... and they call for additional vitamin E and selenium to control them.
Good health, A.N. Spreen, M.D.
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