How to Use Omega 3 EFA’s and How to Avoid Damaging Them

Omega 3 EFA’s are also called Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA’s).
DHA’s- docosahexaenoic acids in high levels benefit retinal health and brain function.
Eicosapentaenoic acid is a fatty acid. Alpha-linolenic Acid - ALA’s is in the shortest supply with consumption at less than 1/6 of 1850 levels. Omega 6 fatty acids however, have more than doubled since 1940. Excessively high amounts of Omega 6 and low levels of Omega 3’s cause an imbalance that can lead to increased water retention, elevated blood pressure, and increased blood clotting as in artery blockage.

Sources of Omega EFA’S include Flaxseed (linseed) oil; one of the richest sources is Flaxseed. Hemp oil, (best balance of Omega 6 to Omega 3), Rapeseed oil, pumpkin seeds, soybean oil have raised levels of Omega 6 as does walnut oils.

Omega 3 EFA’s exist in elevated levels in dark green vegetables such as Seaweed, Broccoli, Spinach, and Kale. Other green vegetables that are rich in Omega 3 acids include Spring Greens Dark Salad leaves; Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts and Parsley also have higher levels of Omega 3 EFA’s.

Omega 3’s is found in fish, particularly in their oils. The oils are harvested from the bodies of fatty fish such as Snapper, Trout, Sardines, Whiting, and especially Wild Salmon. This gives credence to the long held belief that fish is brain food.

Omega 3’s is also added to foods such as eggs, peanut butter, and some baked goods. They can also be consumed in gelatinous capsules, powder form, or in liquid form (Cod Liver Oil).

 EFA’s can be damaged by light, air, and heat. The storage and packaging are of paramount importance: they keep oils from going rancid. When buying oils choose mechanically processed oils in dark containers.Once the oils are opened they must be refrigerated and will last about a week.

There is a variety of health conditions that, according to some research studies, respond positively to the addition of Omega 3 EFA’s to the diet. Among the conditions that can be treated, prevented, or reversed are Arthritis, Arthrosclerosis, Macular Degeneration, and Heart disease.         

Those considering adding Omega 3 EFA’s to their dietary regimen should discuss this with their doctor epsecially if they are taking blood thinners or high blood pressure medication. Omega 3’s have a natural blood thinning quality and could cause excessive bleeding if injured or during surgery. Those on high blood pressure medicine should also be cautious because there is a tendency of Omega 3’s to lower blood pressure. Combined these two treatments could cause a dangerous drop of blood pressure levels.