Sources Of Omega 3 Fatty Acids And Their Health Benefits

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA).

- Bindu Naik

Body can't synthesize it: therefore it must be supplemented from food source. The three important omega-3 fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are major components of cell membrane, neuronal membranes of the brain and retina of eye. Deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids leads to performance deficits in learning and other chronic diseases.

Omega-3 is beneficial for people with metabolic syndrome like central obesity, insulin resistance, fight inflammation, cancer and other diseases. It helps in fighting several autoimmune diseases including type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and psoriasis. Intake of omega-3 fatty acids control the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine (hormone associated with happiness), serotonin and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Therefore is used for the management of depression and anxiety. Fish cod liver oil is the important source of omega-3 fatty acids. Its intake boosts the synthesis of dopamine in the body. Intake of DHA improves the length and quality of sleep.