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Our bodies are complex and interesting machines. There are hormones, electrical impulses, muscles, nutrients and all sorts of things that must be working properly so that we can function at our best. Some of these things our bodies make on their own, and some of them we need to get from our diets.
That’s why I’m talking about Omegas! Omegas are fatty acids that are found in our foods. There are three kinds, Omega 3, Omega 6, and Omega 9. All of them have benefits for our health, but if the amount of them in our body is imbalanced it may contribute to some chronic illnesses.
We’re going to go into a little more detail about all three of these Omegas, so you can not just have a little more information, but so you can work to balance them if you’re worried that the levels are not as even as they should be.
OMEGA-3
There are three types of Omega 3’s:
- Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA): The function of this fatty acid is to produce chemicals that reduce inflammation.
- Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA): This fatty acid makes up 8% of our brains weight and contributes to brain development and function.
- Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA): This fatty acid is mainly used for energy, though it can be converted into EPA or DHA. However, the process for this conversion isn’t efficient.
Omega 3’s are extremely important for our cell membranes and have a variety of other important functions such as:
- Improving heart health and memory
- Supporting mental wellbeing, infant brain development, and bone health
- Reducing weight/waist size and liver fat.
OMEGA-6
The most common Omega 6 fats are
- Linoleic Acid (ALA): This fatty acid is used for energy, but can also be converted into the second most common Omega 6 acid.
- Arachidonic Acid (ARA): This fatty acid is similar to EPA but is more pro-inflammatory. They are mostly used by our immune system.
ARA has been noted to be helpful with many types of chronic inflammation related illnesses.
While these acids are mostly pro inflammatory, if there are too many of them in our system, they can cause the inflammation they are designed to stop.
The ideal ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3’s is 4:1 or less. However, because of our diets if may look more like 10:1 or even 50:1. Many people may benefit MORE from reducing the amount of Omega 6’s put into their bodies.
OMEGA-9
The most common form of Omega 9 in the body is Oleic acid.
While our bodies can make Omega 9’s without dietary help, it has been noted that taking in extra Omega 9’s may help with metabolic health and inflammation.
Because our diets and bodies take care of our need for Omega’s 6 and 9, it is important to supplement our Omega 3’s to maintain that balance that keeps our bodies functioning at their best. Once you’ve got all those Omega’s in balance there’s nothing stopping you from living your best life!
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only, it is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any illness or disease. Please consult a professional for your healthcare needs.