Who Should Take Omega 3 Fatty Acids? - Overview

Who should take omega 3 fatty acids like ALA, DHA and EPA? The answer, quite simply, is everybody; or at least, almost everybody!

Omega 3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA are well-known to have many health benefits, and to influence bodily functions in many ways. But the truth is, however, typical modern day diets are badly lacking in healthy omega 3 fats, and most people are likely to be deficient in these very important nutrients.

There are literally hundreds of studies which have revealed that the majority of the American population is lacking in DHA and EPA, two critical omega 3 fatty acids; it would not be unreasonable to believe that people in other developed nations also suffer from similar levels of deficiency.

Instead, most of us are consuming high amounts of trans fats and saturated fats, as well as foods which have a lot of omega 6 fatty acids. And the intake of such fats actually hampers the body's ability to make use of the already small amounts of omega 3 fatty acids which it is provided.

So, who should take omega 3s? Quite literally, almost everyone.

Deficiency in Omega 3's Linked to Many Health Conditions

A lack of omega 3 fatty acids has been linked to many different ailments and diseases. Here are some examples:

• Babies who are born prematurely and are then not breast-fed have been found more likely to be deficient in DHA.
  
  
• DHA deficiency is associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease.
  
  
• Children suffering from attention deficit disorder (ADD) have been found to have low levels of DHA in their bodies.
  
  
• Some preliminary research has suggested a link between DHA deficiency with some uncommon congenital diseases. These include Zellweger's syndrome and neonatal adrenoleukodystrophy.
  
  
• Several studies have linked depression and reduced levels of omega 3 fatty acids in affected persons.

In light of such knowledge, we have an even clearer idea of who should take omega 3 fatty acids.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids for Children, Infants and Fetuses

Children or kids, young adults, infants, breast-fed babies and even fetuses can benefit from omega 3 fats; in fact, they need these essential fatty acids, and should definitely be part of who should take omega 3s.

Omega 3 fatty acids are necessary for the proper development of a fetus, helping to prevent growth and developmental conditions. Indeed, pregnant and nursing mothers who consume sufficient amounts of omega 3's are helping to give their children's health, intelligence, and even happiness a lift.

These fatty acids are important for the normal development of an infant's eyes and vision, as well as brain and nervous system. Children who are suffering from conditions like ADD and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may experience improvement in their condition with the consumption of omega 3 fatty acids. Aggressive behavior in kids can be prevented, too.

Omega 3's and Pregnant Women

Who should take omega 3 fats? Another group is pregnant mothers, who can stand to benefit from sufficient omega 3 intake, too. Omega 3 fatty acids may help to lower the risk of premature birth, miscarriages, as well as having babies of low birth weight. It may also help prevent preeclampsia. In addition, the risk of postpartum depression is reduced.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids for Dogs, Cats and Other Pets

Even dogs, cats and other pets could benefit from omega 3 fatty acids. Cats and dogs have been reported to enjoy healthier and shiner coats of fur with the consumption of these essential fatty acids. In addition, pets have been said to obtain relief from conditions like arthritis, joint pain, inflammation and dry eyes, too. Logically, why wouldn't pets enjoy the same benefits which omega 3 fatty acids bestow upon human beings?

Conclusion

Who should take omega 3s? The truth is that everyone can benefit from omega 3 fatty acids. In fact, everyone needs these essential fatty acids. Omega 3's like ALA, DHA and EPA have been linked to a wide variety of health benefits and as well as influence on various bodily functions. These include positive effects on brain health, joint health, immunity, hair health, skin health, as well as heart and cardiovascular health. These fatty acids help to quell inflammation, and also assist in keeping serious diseases like cancer at bay.

In order to have even more understanding of who should take omega 3 fatty acids, read more about the health benefits of omega 3 fatty acids on the other sections of this website.

(Omega 3 supplements are usually in the form of liquid or capsules / pills.)

Pages about Who Should Take Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 for Kids and Children
Omega 3 for Dogs, Cats and other Pets