Most people are aware that Omega-3 essential fatty acids are important for heart health.
But you may be in for a surprise because research has also shown Omega-3s are even more impressive than we thought…
But the key is, you have to make sure you’re getting the right kind.
Here’s the scoop:
Heart attack prevention AND recovery
The natural anti-inflammatory action of Omega-3 fats helps counteract plaque buildup in your arteries and encourages smooth, healthy blood flow which reduces your risk of a fatal heart attack by 10 percent.
They also help lower your cholesterol and triglycerides.
But the impressive work of Omega-3s doesn’t stop there!
Because when they are taken AFTER a heart attack, these fats can also significantly improve your chances of survival and help your heart heal from the trauma.
Animal vs. plant sources—does it make a difference?
Although ALL Omega-3 fatty acids support your health in some way, the superstar here is Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). In addition to heart health, DHA is absolutely vital for proper brain function—90 percent of the fat in your brain is DHA.
Animal-based EFAs (especially DHA and its partner EPA--Eicosapentaenoic Acid) also play a crucial role in your health in these ways:
- Mood regulation
- Healthy bones
- Prevention of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
- Reducing your risk of autoimmunity
- Protecting against cancers
- Protecting against arthritis
- Easing inflammation from Crohn’s and colitis
- Lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides
DHA and EPA are found in animal (marine) sources of Omega-3 fatty acids—specifically fish oils.
Now, there are also plant sources of Omega-3 fats such as flaxseed oil, nuts and leafy greens. However, plants do not provide DHA and EPA—the primary plant-derived Omega-3 fat is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Although ALA serves as an energy source for your body, it does not provide the same health benefits as DHA and EPA.
Your body is capable of converting ALA into DHA and EPA; however, the conversion rate is typically VERY low—less than one percent. Therefore, if you only rely on plant-derived Omega-3s, you could be seriously jeopardizing your heart and brain health and more.
Get enough of the right kind!
In addition to incorporating more oily fish into your diet (be sure to choose only wild-caught varieties!), the best way to ensure you have health supporting levels of EPA and DHA is to take a fish oil formula like VitalMega-3.
Every suggested 2-capsule serving of VitalMega-3 delivers a soothing 1,200 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids, including 600 mg of Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and 400 mg of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), which is in the optimal 3:2 ratio recommended by health experts to deliver the most benefits.
Your body will thank you handsomely.
To your health,
Sherry Brescia
