Benefits of Omega-3, Myth or Fact

Omega-3 is often referred to as a super ingredient that is rich in benefits. So many drug and supplement companies on the market claim that their products contain omega-3s, which are then sold at high prices. It's just that not all things claimed as omega-3 benefits have been clinically tested. Fish oil sold on the market generally contains two types of omega 3, namely docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentanoic acid (EPA). In addition to these two substances, also known as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) which the body will process into omega-3 fatty acids. Apart from fish oil supplements, omega-3s can also be obtained from egg yolks, seafood (such as crabs and fish), and some types of vegetable oils, nuts and seeds. These foods are consumed in a special diet called the Mediterranean diet.

Reveals the Facts Benefits of Omega-3

Foods and supplements that contain omega-3s are often believed to be a source that helps fight health problems, such as heart disease, prevent dementia, and play an important role in fetal development. However, some studies that conclude the above, are not carried out with the right mechanism. For example the number of samples that do not meet the requirements and the observation time is too short. Following are some of the claims and facts regarding omega-3.
  • Reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease

  • A series of studies have found that the link between consumption of fish containing high fish oil can indeed reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and reduce the risk of stroke. In addition, regular consumption of foods containing omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce triglyceride levels in the blood.
  • Reducing the risk of cancer

  • There is no strong evidence that shows that omega-3s can reduce cancer risk. A study actually shows the opposite. Consumption of omega-3 supplements actually increase the risk of prostate cancer by 70 percent. Other studies have not been able to ensure the consumption of omega-3 supplements can really be useful for people with advanced cancer or not, especially in increasing appetite and helping to gain weight.
  • Helps prevent dementia

  • Dementia or impaired memory, thinking power, and ways of behaving are claimed to be prevented with the help of omega-3 consumption. But the fact of the study found that the consumption of omega-3 supplements did not bring these benefits to the elderly. Other research also found that omega-3s did not have a significant effect on memory and cognitive power.
  • Maintaining the health of the sense of sight

  • Research in 2010 found that eating fish with high oil content at least twice a week can reduce the risk of macular degeneration (the area behind the retina) due to age. Nevertheless, the evidence of this research still needs to be studied further.
  • Relieve inflammation in arthritis

  • Many studies mention that regular consumption of fish oil for 3 months can reduce joint pain in people with arthritis. In addition, consumption of fish oil is also suspected to have an impact on the immune system of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. However, further research is needed regarding this matter.
  • Reducing the risk of depression

  • Some research shows that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce symptoms of depression in women. However, how significant the effect is still needs to be further investigated.

The Risk Behind Omega-3

In addition to some claims that have not been proven strong, consumption of omega-3 actually also invites the following risks:
  • Consumption of omega-3 in high amounts can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke, which is a ruptured blood vessel in the brain.
  • Someone who is at risk of developing colon cancer should carefully limit the consumption of omega-3 or fish oil. Because, excessive consumption can increase the risk of colon cancer.
  • Consumption of large amounts of omega-3s can trigger toxicity of vitamins A and D.
  • Infants, pregnant and nursing women, it is recommended to limit consumption of fish containing omega-3s. Therefore, the mercury content in these fish can endanger health. To get the benefits of consuming fish containing omega-3s, it is recommended to eat red snapper, marlin and fresh tuna.
In general, omega-3 does have a number of healthful benefits for the body. But not all the properties that are often published are true. It is better to get omega-3 from natural food ingredients that are not excessive levels. Consult with your doctor about taking omega-3 supplements, especially if you have special health conditions.

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