Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Healthy Aging

Omega-3s may be the key for healthy aging. Scientific evidence strongly supports EPA/DHA intake for maintaining heart health and reducing risk of serious cardiac events. EPA and DHA also contain anti-inflammatory agents and are suggested as adjunctive therapies for autoimmune disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (to reduce inflammation-associated digestive complaints) and rheumatoid arthritis (to relieve joint stiffness/tenderness). These omega-3s have also demonstrated benefits in helping reduce age-related macular degeneration and dementia to promote healthy aging. And preliminary studies have shown promise in supporting a positive mood. Depending on your health goals, concentrated doses of EPA and/or DHA may be recommended.
Are omega-3s part of your daily nutritional plan? Most of us were taught growing up that vitamins and minerals are important, but our education on other nutrients that benefit health may be lacking. Omega-3s are essential fatty acids (EFAs), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), that are prevalent in the body but aren’t manufactured in the body. EFAs make up a large percentage of some of our most vital organs and influence every cell: structure and repair, gene expression, and cell signaling and responses. So their presence (or absence) impacts multiple aspects of physical and emotional health. But Western diets are typically lacking in foods rich in omega-3s, which also can’t be found in a typical multivitamin/mineral.
Get trustworthy omega-3 support. While food is always the preferred source for nutrients of any kind, it would be difficult to obtain therapeutic levels from food alone. Plus, there are warnings for certain populations to limit consumption of omega-3-rich fish that may carry a higher risk of heavy metal contamination. Likewise, omega-3 supplements can become rancid and carry risks of heavy metals, pesticides, and other contaminants. And some may have an excessively fishy smell or taste. So it’s important to select an omega-3 supplement made from purity-tested marine oils that are manufactured to exacting standards, in addition to offering an appropriate dose of the right combination of omega-3s to meet your specific needs.
Schedule an appointment for help in choosing the right omega-3 supplement to address your specific health concerns and for overall health maintenance.
Dr. Gaila