Saturday, February 11, 2012

The Omega 3 vs. Omega 6 debate

Chances are you heard about Omega 3 fatty acids and Omega 6 fatty acid. I've done all the research and here is the facts:

  • Omega 6 fatty acids are found in the common foods that we eat in the western diet 
  • Omega 3 fatty acids are found in oily fish and algae foods that are not commonly consumed in the western diet 

  • Because of this, we consume WAY MORE omega 6 fatty acids than we do omega 3 fatty acids. 
PUFA = Poly Unsaturated Fatty Acids

  • Unfortunately for us, Omega 6 fatty acids in the body lead to inflammation, which is the root cause to almost all chronic diseases.
    • Most pain medications we take are under a class of "Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Medication," so you can see how detrimental inflammation is to our body.  
    • Inflammation is a natural response our body gets to cuts or trauma, but in the case of chronic diseases it is an uncontrolled response. 
  • Omega 3 fatty acids, on the other hand, lead to anti-inflammation. This is extremely important in overall health and wellness.  
  • Here are some benefits from omega 3 fatty acids in our health and wellness: 

  • Come back tomorrow to read my post of the anti-inflammatory diet. It includes foods that promote anti-inflammation in the body and is a diet perfect for over all health, wellness, and longevity. 
  • Also, unless you eat fish such as salmon 3 times a week, most people benefit from a fish oil supplement of 1.5 grams a day or more. Read my previous post here which outlines how to choose the right fish oil supplement. 
Xoxo, 
Danielle 


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