What is Omega-3?

Omega-3 is the name given to a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids, also known as ω − 3 fatty acids or n − 3 fatty acids. Omega-3 is an important component of lipid metabolism in animals, that is, the conversion of fat into energy by the body and is widely found in nature. Omega-3 has important roles in human nutrition and physiology. The human body needs Omega-3 fatty acids for many functions, from muscle activity to cell growth.

What are the Benefits of Omega-3?

Omega-3 supports the immune system, which allows the body to fight against diseases.

Omega-3 plays a protective role against cardiovascular diseases by reducing triglyceride and bad cholesterol in the blood and increasing good cholesterol. In addition, according to scientific studies, EPA fatty acid, which is one of the Omega-3 fatty acids, reduces blood clot formation and the risk of heart attack by showing blood pressure lowering and vasodilating effects.

Omega-3 fatty acids, thanks to their anti-inflammatory effect, help alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, which manifests itself with symptoms such as pain, edema, redness and high fever in the joints.

According to scientific research, Omega-3 fatty acids help prevent cancer. It is known to be effective, especially in the prevention of pancreatic and gastrointestinal system cancers.

There is plenty of DHA in the retina. For this reason, it can be said that Omega-3 fatty acids are effective on the health of the eye structure.

Omega-3 fatty acids play a supportive role on the male reproductive system.

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to have a pain-relieving effect.

Omega-3 fatty acids in fish reduce the risk of diabetes by increasing the function of insulin in the body.

Omega-3 is a very important fatty acid during pregnancy. During this period, Omega-3 passes from mother to baby with the help of the placenta. If the mother does not have enough Omega-3, the brain development of the baby is adversely affected. In addition, the risk of premature birth and premature birth decreases in expectant mothers who eat rich in Omega-3 during pregnancy.

EPA and DHA fatty acids support the regeneration and proliferation of brain cells.

Contrary to popular belief, Omega-3 fatty acids fight obesity and overweight. When Omega-3 is consumed together with physical activity, it accelerates the weight loss process.

According to some studies, Omega-3 fatty acids help to prevent the emergence of psychological disorders such as depression or to alleviate the symptoms associated with these diseases.

According to studies conducted in recent years, Omega-3 fatty acids help protect the kidneys thanks to their antioxidant effect.

Omega-3 Deficiency

In case of deficiency of Omega-3 fatty acids, various health problems may occur. Some of the health problems that can be seen in Omega-3 deficiency are as follows:

• Deterioration in mental functions,
• Increase in cardiovascular diseases,
• Coagulation disorders,
• Vision problems,
• Weak immune system against diseases,
• Infertility in men,
• Muscle and joint inflammation,
• Growth retardation in fetuses and children,
• Skin problems

Omega-3 is found in which foods?

Fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel are among the fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, walnuts, flaxseed oil, canola oil are also rich in Omega-3. Flax oil contains approximately 50-60% Omega-3 fatty acids.

Are There Any Harms / Side Effects of Omega-3 Supplements?

It is beneficial for people who cannot consume enough Omega-3 containing foods in their daily diets to take Omega-3 fatty acids with the help of food supplements. However, many people may not want to take Omega-3 supplements because they are worried about the side effects or harms of Omega-3 supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids do not cause any side effects if the daily consumption amount is followed.