“In the past three decades, total fat and saturated fat intake as a percentage of total calories has continuously decreased in Western diets, while the intake of omega-6 fatty acid increased and the omega-3 fatty acid decreased, resulting in a large increase in the omega-6/omega-3 ratio from 1:1 during evolution to 20:1 today or even higher.” This statement, by the National Institute for Health, should steal your attention.
This change in the composition of fat substances has implications for the increases in weight, obesity, and the rise in illnesses that we see around us. Maintaining a proper balance of omega oils helps reduce inflammation, which is a key contributor to both chronic and acute diseases. Having omega oils in proper balance also reduces the need for other anti-inflammatory supplements, like the magnificent Turmeric Forte by Standard Process/Mediherb.
The fundamental building blocks of all cell membranes are phospholipids. That means every cell in the body has an outer layer of fat. EVERY cell! And the amount of omega-3 vs omega-6 that we consume has major consequences to our health. Omega-3 fatty acids regulate various functions in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, nervous, and endocrine systems. And while there is a place for omega-6 fatty acids in our diet, the increase in consumption over the past three decades is alarming. “The apparent increased consumption of linoleic acid (LA), which was primarily from soybean oil, has likely decreased tissue concentrations of EPA and DHA during the 20th century.” (NIH) The balance of omega-3 to omega-6 is an important determinant for brain development and in decreasing the risk for coronary heart disease (CHD), hypertension, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and other autoimmune and possibly neurodegenerative diseases.
Consuming enough omega-3 fatty acids, while limiting omega-6 oils, is a crucial ingredient for healthy cellular function. While there are several options to help accomplish this health goal, Standard Process’ Tuna Omega-3 Oil is a foundational supplement. Full of pure, high quality oils, and made with sustainably sourced ingredients, Tuna Omega-3 Oil is a valuable supply of omega-3’s, including DHA and EPA oils. EPA and DHA are not made efficiently by the body, so we want to consume higher levels of these in the diet. DHA, in particular, is especially high in the retina, brain, and reproductive hormones.
Do you know your omega-3 to omega-6 ratio? This is one of the most important “numbers” to keep in check. Utilizing the OmegaQuant, a simple finger prick, is a quick and easy way to give you highly valuable information about your cellular health. Monitoring your omega levels and including Tuna Omega-3 (or a similar product recommended by your nutritionist) in your diet, is key to great health!
Cellular Function
Healthy Skin
Anti-Inflammatory
Cardiovascular Health
Brain Health
Comments