No one can deny that consuming omega-3 fatty acids is extremely essential, as they are known to have many amazing health benefits. It is important to note that there are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids: ALA, EPA, and DHA. Our bodies cannot produce these important fatty acids on their own, which is why obtaining this essential element through diet and available foods is crucial.
Many foods naturally contain omega-3 fatty acids and can be readily available to everyone. In fact, fish and other seafood, such as salmon, herring, sardines, and tuna, are excellent sources of a plentiful amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, items like flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, canola oil, soybean oil, cod liver oil, olive oil, and eggs also contain these important acids. Here are some uncommon and unexpected benefits of omega-3 fatty acids:
1. **Reduces Risks of Age-Related Macular Degeneration**: Be sure to consume large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids to avoid the risks of macular degeneration. These acids provide DHA, which is an essential structural component of the retina, protecting it from dryness and facilitating proper drainage of fluid within the eye, thus reducing the risk of glaucoma and helping to maintain visual strength.
2. **Beneficial for Cardiovascular Health**: Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids helps lower triglycerides, reduce blood pressure levels, and increase the amount of good cholesterol in the blood. These beneficial fatty acids can also help prevent harmful blood clots and deposits from forming on the walls of arteries and veins, all of which contributes to keeping the heart muscle healthy.
3. **Helpful for Rheumatoid Arthritis**: If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or are trying to avoid this chronic condition, doctors strongly recommend consuming foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids. Timely intake of omega-3 supplements, along with necessary medications for treating arthritis, can provide relief from chronic pain, acute spasms, and joint swelling.
4. **Beneficial for Brain Health**: Up to 40% of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the brain consist of DHA, which is a form of omega-3 fatty acids. Therefore, to avoid attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, cerebral palsy, and autism, it is crucial to consume omega-3 supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids are also known to prevent Alzheimer's disease, depression, and anxiety. Consuming sufficient amounts of omega-3 supplements is beneficial for improving mood fluctuations, and patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are advised to consume a lot of omega-3-rich foods.
5. **Helpful in Fighting Autoimmune Diseases**: Autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 diabetes, ulcerative colitis, multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis can be fought by consistent and adequate consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, whether through foods rich in these important acids or through dietary supplements.
