It is estimated that 85 percent or more of people in the Western World are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential to life at every stage. They are found in the membrane of every cell in our bodies and help ensure that the cell membrane is ideally equipped to do its job. These essential fatty acids, or fish oils as they are often called, are different from the other fats that we consume (saturated and trans) because they are necessary to life and to our health, yet our bodies cannot produce them on our own. They must be consumed through our diet. Finally, a fat that we can eat without feeling guilty!

After much research, it has been concluded that the consumption of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids plays a crucial role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Benefits include maintaining the elasticity of the artery walls, preventing the formation of blood clots, reducing overall blood pressure and stabilizing the heart’s rhythm.

The American Heart Association recommends that all healthy adults eat at least two servings of fish per week, particularly fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon. These specific fish are recommended for their higher levels of two omega-3 fatty acids; eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acid. Consuming tofu and other forms of soybeans, canola, walnut, flaxseed and their oils are also recommended since these foods contain alpha-linolenic acid (LNA), an acid that can be converted into omega-3 fatty acids within our bodies.

Not a big fan of fish? Do you follow a vegetarian diet? Although increasing one’s intake of omega-3 fatty acids through food is ideal, supplements may be helpful. It is important to consult your doctor before consuming supplements to ensure that the dosage and the quality are appropriate.