Role Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids In Human Health

Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are important for innumerable functions in the body.

The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are mostly found in seafood, such as fatty fish e.g., salmon, tuna, trout, herring, and shellfish such as crab, mussels, and oysters.

 Several kinds of omega-3, called ALA

They’re found in other foods, including some vegetable oils e.g., Flaxseed, canola, and soy. Omega-3s are also common as dietary supplements; for example, fish oil or cod liver oil supplements contain DHA & EPA.

The results of a research on diets rich in seafood (fish and shellfish) and the risk of heart disease get lower by 28%  that people who eat seafood at least once a week are less likely to die of heart disease than those who rarely or don't eat seafood.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010 includes the recommendation that adults eat 8 or more ounces of a variety of seafood per week so as it sustains a range of nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, lower amounts are recommended for young children, and there are exceptional recommendations for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

EPA and DHA

EPAand DHA are thought to have anti-inflammatory effects and a role in oxidative stress.

The research facts show that seafood is rich in EPA and DHA, which are a heart-healthy diet; however, supplements of EPA and DHA have not been shown to protect entirely against heart disease. In 2012, the two groups of scientists demonstrated the research on the efficacy of EPA/DHA supplements on heart disease risk.

One group examined only studies in people with a history of heart disease, and the other group examined the people both with and without a history of heart disease; neither review observed strong evidence of a protective effect of the supplements.

A 2012 review of the scientific research concluded that EPA and DHA, the sorts of omega-3s found in seafood and fish oil, maybe helpful in relieving symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

In the studies included in the review, many of the participants reported that when they were taking fish oil they felt lower in morning stiffness, less joint swelling and pain, and less need for anti-inflammatory drugs to overcome their symptoms.

The seafood's nutritional character is of explicit importance throughout lethal growth and development, likewise as in early infancy and childhood.

What NCBI tells

Omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids have been determined for healthy aging. Recently, fish-derived omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA have been paired with fetal development, cardiovascular function, Alzheimer's disease too. However, because our bodies do not efficiently produce some omega-3 fatty acids, it is rather important to get adequate amounts through fish and fish-oils.

Studies have shown that EPA and DHA are important for proper fetal development, including neuronal, retinal, and immune function. EPA and DHA may affect many aspects of cardiovascular function including inflammation, peripheral artery disease, major coronary events, and anticoagulation. EPA and DHA have been linked to promising results in prevention, weight management, and cognitive function in those with very mild Alzheimer's disease.

Recommendations for Pregnant or Breastfeeding

Those women who are pregnant or breastfeeding ought to consume 8 to 12 ounces of seafood per week from a range of seafood varieties that are low in methyl radical mercury as a part of a healthy intake pattern and whereas staying among their calorie requirements; pregnant or breastfeeding ought to limit the quantity of white tuna (labeled as “albacore”) to no more than 6 ounces per week. They shouldn't eat tilefish, shark, swordfish, and king mackerel since they're high in methyl radical mercury.

There's analysis in progress on Omega-3 fatty acids and diseases of the brain and eye, however, there's no such confirmation to draw conclusions regarding the effectiveness of omega-3s for these conditions.

DHA for Brain Functioning

DHA plays vital roles within the functioning of the brain and therefore the eye. Researchers are actively investigating the potential edges of DHA and different Omega-3 fatty acids in preventing or treating the various brain- and eye-related conditions.

EPA for Heart-health

While EPA plays an important role within the functioning of the heart.

There's conflicting proof regarding whether or not a link would possibly exist between the omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood as well as fish oil (EPA/DHA) and an enhanced risk of Prostate cancer (Adenocarcinoma), more analysis on the association of omega-3 fatty acid consumption and adenocarcinoma risk is in the proceeding.

As regarding for supplement Omega-3 is in Flaxseed and Chia seed, they are more nutritious, and flushed with EPA/DHA; so as they are plant-based, and possessing natural characteristics.

Conclusion

Indeed, adding seafood to your diet is worthwhile to health. Role Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids In Human Health, in any case, omega-3 fatty acids supplements are still unsure. If you're considering omega-3 fatty acid supplements, refer to your health care professional. It’s particularly vital to consult your child’s health care provider, in another case, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding if you're taking drugs that affect blood clotting, if you're allergic to food, or if you're close to giving your child omega-3 supplement.

Written by

 Wasim Noor