Why We Love Omega 3

For years, we have been told to consume more Omega 3 for its many health benefits. It’s one of the most commonly taken supplements on the market, with our bodies unable to synthesize it on their own.

But how exactly does Omega 3 benefit our bodies?

1. Weight loss

Omega 3 has the ability to speed up chemical reactions in the body, meaning it can burn fat to create water and energy, leading to weight loss. It’s also thought to satiate food cravings in overweight and obese people.

2. Skin health

Omega 3 can improve inflammatory problems with the skin such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. Reports show it can improve symptoms such as itching, scaling and erythema, whilst also improving the skin’s elasticity. It can also inhibit damage and inflammation in the cells, making it great for giving skin a level of protection against UV radiation.

3. Mental Health

A deficiency in Omega 3 has been implicated in a wide range of mental health disorders. Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids make up a huge part of the brain and play a huge role in neurological function. Studies have suggested Omega 3 is beneficial in relation to mood and anxiety, and in particular major depressive disorder.

4. Pain and inflammation

The Western diet is high in Omega 6, not but Omega 3. This can lead to an imbalance which can contribute to a wide range of acute and chronic illnesses characterized by inflammation, pain and auto-immunity. Omega 3 supplements have been proven to correct this, meaning it can help conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), lupus, cystic fibrosis, asthma, allergic disease and multiple sclerosis.

5. Pregnancy and lactation

Taking Omega 3 supplements during pregnancy and prenatal period can affect both the health of the mother and child. Mothers who take Omega 3 lower the risk of premature birth, increase the lengths of pregnancy and the birth weight and can improve the child’s neurological development.

6. Helps you sleep

Studies have shown children who take Omega 3 sleep for longer and wake less during the night, and researchers believe it could have the same effect for adults. It works by helping the body create substances, like the hormone melatonin, which help with sleep.

7. Eases PMS

Omega 3 can help not only the psychological signs of PMS but also symptoms like breast tenderness and bloat. Because it’s an anti-inflammatory, it can help with the swelling and pain associated with PMS.