At first glance ‘Fatty Acids’ might sound neither appealing or particularly good for us. However that goes to show just how wrong first impressions can be!
Fatty Acids are crucial, not least because our brain is made up of them and they are key to the normal functioning of all tissue in the body!
But here is the problem…the body cannot produce its own fatty acids unaided and this means that it we are absolutely reliant on our diet to deliver what we need. What we receive from our diet is essential – hence the name Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) or Omegas, as they are better known.
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So what are the benefits?
Where do we start! If you want to: lift your moods, improve your concentration, reduce cravings, increase your energy levels, get fitter and stronger, improve recovery, have beautiful skin, tan more and burn less in the sun, a daily dose of Essential Fatty Acids is what precisely what you need. Then there is the protection against strokes, heart disease, joint pain and menstrual pain.
And the positives don’t stop there
This quality of fat also promotes our natural steroid production therefore meaning we can upgrade our athletic performance and general quality of functionality significantly and naturally. It also acts as a natural protector to our bodies from toxins and pollutants.
When food rich in EFA was given to juvenile delinquents, they became more responsive in a positive way. Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder has been shown to diminish through the ingestion of omega-3 and omega-6. In studies some children appeared to have improved their mental skills and enhanced their ability to concentrate and learn.
Some research has even suggested that omega-3 and 6 might help combat the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia as well as gradual memory loss through ageing. And it has been shown to aid in countering depression and bipolar conditions.
What Are Omega-3 & 6 Fatty Acids and where do we find them?
It is a combination of three fats. These are: Alpha-linolenic (ALA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). And oily fish are a great source. These include: tuna, salmon, mackerel, herring, kippers, pilchards, anchovies, trout, crab, sardines and whitebait.
Other fish that are a quality source include: sole, plaice, cod, haddock and gurnard.
Away from seafood omega-3 and omega-6 can also be drawn from green leafy vegetables, various nuts including walnuts and pistachio, linseed and rapeseed vegetable oils, eggs and also some milk and yoghurt.
Their benefits are vital. We can find a good balance of Essential Fatty Acids in such oils as: flaxseed, hemp, coconut, Sunflower seed and Germ. As you can see there is no doubt that all of us require Essential Fatty Acids for a multitude of reasons and where we derive them from is both clear and numerous. So there really is no excuse!
Look at your diet, see where you lack some of these important oily fish and plant based elements and make a point of introducing them into your eating habits.
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Mel, 32y Location: London, United Kingdom Working with Pollyanna changed everything. I lost 13kg, got toned and have more energy than ever! Get same results!
