The Importance of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Ohio State University was recently published in the Brain, Behavior and Immunity journal. They did a study gauging the impact that fish oil has on inflammation and anxiety. The study involved 68 first and second year medical students. They gave half the students the omega-3 supplement and the other half placebos. OSU conducted 6 studies throughout. Blood tests showed students who received the omega-3 had a 20 percent reduction in anxiety and 14% reduction in cytokines compared to the students who received placebos.
Omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA play a role in reducing the level of cytokines. Cytokines help promote inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a natural immune response that lets your body heal but can also become dangerous, as it can host diseases and health issues such as:
- Heart Disease
- Cancer
- Asthma
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Allergies
- Crohn’s Disease
- Alzheimer’s
Past studies have shown that krill oil, an omega-3 fatty acid, works just as well as antidepressants, but without the harmful side effects. Inadequate intake of the essential fatty acid has numerous side effects on your brain such as:
- Change the levels of both serotonin and dopamine-play a role in feelings and pleasure
- Compromises the blood-brain barrier that keeps unwanted matter out
- Decreases normal blood flow to the brain which is linked to depression
So, how do you get Omega-3 into your system?
- Animal-based sources: Fish, Fish Oil, and Krill Oil
- Plant-based Sources: Flax, Hemp, and Chia
These sources come in different forms like liquid, tables, powder, etc, and some can be added to your favorite smoothie or other recipe. Check out the possibilities and give yourself a boost!