The Benefits of Essential Fatty Acids

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When it comes to fat, all are not created equal. Essential fatty acids  or EFA’s are a type of fat that you don’t want to cut back on. Not only does your body need these fatty acids to function, they also deliver some big health benefits. Research has linked getting adequate EFA’s to everything from lessening Alzheimer’s symptoms to increasing our ability to metabolize (or burn) fat. When possible try to get omega-3’s from foods rather than supplements. Recent news has called some supplements into question because the lipids (fat) they contain may cause inflammation in the body
IF exposed to oxygen. Only buy supplements that are high-quality and from a reliable source: one that has been carefully processed and packaged to avoid subjecting the fish oil to air. How do you know if you are purchasing a quality product? Check the brand on a site like consumerreports.org or consumerlabs.com. Always talk first with your doctor when considering supplements, he or she may advise against it if you have any existing medical conditions.
So, with that in mind, most nutritionists will agree that food should be your primary source for vitamins and minerals. Aim to eat fish high in omega-3 fatty acids two times a week, including salmon (wild has more omega-3 than farmed), sardines, mackerel, lake trout and tuna. While eating more fatty fish is a good idea, some are higher in levels of mercury so aim to eat no more than 7 ounces of mackerel, or wild swordfish a week.
Other good sources of omega-3’s are walnuts, flaxseed and flaxseed oil, hempseed and dark greeens such as broccoli and spinach.

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