The Importance of Omega 3 Fats - Omega 3 Fats in the Diet

In order to have a healthy diet you may need to add Omega 3 fats to your food plan. Adding fats? Yes adding fats but these are good fats and can reverse, prevent, or alleviate some health concerns. Omega 3 fats include DHA docoahexaenoic acid is high enough amounts will support retinal health and brain function. EPA eicosapentoic acid aids in the reduction of inflammation as in Arthritis.

Omega 3 fats are important for the production of prostaglandins a hormone like substance that is needed for such things as control of smooth muscle contraction. It also helps to lower blood pressure and body temperature as well as reducing inflammation. Other physiological functions that are regulated by prostaglandins are blood clotting, nerve transmission, kidney function and inflammatory and allergic responses. The production of other hormones is also aided by prostaglandins.

A diet rich in Omega 3 helps cell membranes to function properly. Other health issues such as cancer, heart disease, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, diabetes, and ADD/ADHD can be positively affected by consuming Omega 3 fats. Brain and retinal health is supported by Omega 3's. DHA in high amounts will benefit brain function. Alzheimer's, Macular Degeneration and memory are also improved with adequate amounts of Omega 3 fats either in your diet or in supplement form.

Although there is no recommended daily allowance (RDA) of Omega 3, it is recommended that approximately 2% to 4% of your daily caloric intake. This can be achieved by adding flaxseeds and wild salmon to your food plan. Eating Hoki fish, native to New Zealand, will also add Omega 3's to your diet, if it is available to you. The Hoki fish is also found in cold, fresh water.

There are many foods that are rich in Omega 3 fats. Spinach, Brussell sprouts, Collard Greens are dark green vegetables that have high amounts of Omega 3's. Walnuts, salmon, scallops, halibut and shrimp are also rich in Omega 3 fats.

Omega 3 fat supplements are available in capsule form. They are also available in concentrates. The concentrated forms are available over the counter or by prescription. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to determine if Omega 3 fat supplements are something you should consider adding to your dietary regimen.

It is extremely important to look at labels. The best supplements are those that are of pharmaceutical grade and those that have been molecularly distilled (purified of toxins). This increases the safety of their consumption and the potency (quality) of the supplements.