Omega 3 and Weight Loss

You may wonder about the relationship between Omega-3 and Weight Loss. In this article, we will discuss more on this issue. There are many diets and weight-loss programs available in today’s weight conscious world.

Fish oil has been considered in this regard, and it is actually the Omega-3 fatty acids that it contains that really provide all the benefits.

These acids are seen to be essential to a wide range of body functions and also help to alleviate many problems concerning blood pressure and other problems associated with it.

What are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

The body manufactures its own cholesterol, but does not make its own Omega-3 fatty acids. So it is only diet that can add these acids to your body. There are three main types of fatty acids.

1) ALA (alpha-linolenic acid).

2) EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid).

3) DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). ALA, when consumed in food, breaks down into the latter two. EPA and DHA are the acids that are really responsible for a whole host of benefits when it is absorbed by the body.

The importance of Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acid reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, benefits arthritis sufferers and also helps to avoid certain cancers.

During pregnancy, if a mother’s diet lacks Omega-3 fatty acids; her fetus is likely to have vision and nervous system problems. The fetus absorbs these fatty acids from the mother during the period of gestation.

A lack of Omega-3, available in fish oil is said to cause memory loss, a vacillating mood, extreme fatigue and other cognitive functions are also affected. So it is very essential that Omega-3 fatty acids are always present in the diet, whether through fish oil or other vegetable products that also contain Omega-3.

If you make sure that your Omega-3, intake is proper, you are likely to be benefited with improved sugar levels and better cholesterol levels.

You are also likely to have higher HDL levels. HDL is what is considered the good cholesterol. Your triglyceride levels can also be lowered, and as this is the most common form of fat in the body, it automatically helps you to lose weight.

How do you get Omega-3 into your diet?

This is really very easy if you are used to consuming fish. AHA (American Heart Association) suggests that you include fish into your diet at least twice a week.

Mackerel, herring, salmon, tuna, halibut and krill are suggested. Vegetarians can look to obtain their source of Omega-3 from hemp oil, flaxseed oil, beans, tofu, walnuts and Omega-3 enriched eggs, though the oils are better used only on medical advice, as they contain saturated fat.

Weight loss and fish oil go to together because of the very many benefits of Omega-3. That is why Mediterranean diets that have reduced high-fat red meat and substitute this with fish that is rich in Omega-3 acid is very popular all over the world.

This diet includes whole grains, fresh fruit, vegetables and garlic, which also contain Omega-3. Omega3 content of Kiwi fruit, lingonberries, walnuts, pecans and flax is also quite substantial.

Are there any dangers?

There have been some indications that consuming more than 3 grams of Omega-3 supplements like fish oil lead to strokes. So if you are planning to use fish oil to lose weight, do visit your doctor and let him suggest to you the right dosage.

As a matter of fact, you should consider taking Omega-3 with some exercises. It will be a good idea to have a good exercising plan so that you can really lose weight.