Omega3 Fats: All Fats are NOT Created Equal
Are you aware that you need more fat in your diet? You are probably thinking: that statement has to be a misprint. The truth of the matter is that most people here in the United States DO need more fat in their diets. The problem is that we have been taking in too much of the wrong fats and not consuming enough of the healthy fats.
Omega3 fats are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are vital to our good health. Our bodies do not produce this important nutrient so we need to get it from the foods we eat. The main source of these essential fats is found in cold-water fish including sardines, herring, trout, and salmon as well as walnuts and sunflower seeds.
Taking fish oil supplements is another option to get the nutritional benefits of omega3 fats, with the added advantage of knowing the exact amounts you are taking in.
There are basically three classifications of fats: saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated. Saturated fats are considered to be the least nutritious, and the NCEP(National Cholesterol Education Program) sponsored by the National Institutes of Health’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends these fats be limited to 10% or less of your total calorie intake.
Some examples of saturated fats are lard, beef, dairy, as well as coconut and palm oils. When eaten in excess, these fats have been known to raise blood cholesterol levels increasing the risk of heart disease.
Monounsaturated fats, considered healthy fats, are found in canola oil, olive oil, and peanut oil. These fats are beneficial to your health as they help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your blood and lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. They also provide nutrients that help develop and maintain your body’s cells.
Polyunsaturated fats also have a positive effect on your health in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering heart disease risks. They include essential fats that your body needs but cannot produce on its own including omega3 fats as well as omega6. These essential fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function and in the normal growth and development of your body. Foods high in polyunsaturated fat include fatty fish, a number of vegetable oils, and some nuts and seeds.
Now that you are aware that all fats aren’t bad, I encourage you to make some necessary changes in your diet to include more foods with omega3 fats, and limit saturated fats for a healthier lifestyle. You will soon notice a positive difference.
For more health information about essential fatty acids check out my web site listed below in the bio.
Elizabeth Ruby is passionate about good health and is a firm believer in taking quality nutritional supplements. She has extensively researched Omega 3 fatty acids for optimal health. Check out her web site at to find out how she keeps her mind and body young and active, functioning fully with the help of Omega 3 Fish Oil. Article Source: