What can Omega-3 fatty acids do for me?

What can Omega-3 fatty acids do for your health and fitness? Here's a short list...

Want to reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke? Hundreds of studies have shown that diets rich in Omega-3 fatty acids decrease the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and abnormal heart rhythms. One study of over 20,000 physicians showed a 52% reduction in the risk of heart attacks in those who ate at least one fish meal per week compared with those who ate fish once a month or less. In particular, a high blood level of Omega-3 fatty acid seemed to provide significant protection against sudden death. Additionally, several studies have shown that eating 200 grams of fatty fish or taking six to 10 capsules of fish oil daily will lower your blood pressure.

Do you suffer from arthritis or joint pain? Patients taking Omega 3 show a significant reduction in the number of tender joints and morning stiffness, as well as an increase in grip strength. Studies have shown that patients taking fish oil supplements for rheumatoid arthritis or gout require fewer pain medications and, in fact, some are able to discontinue their anti-inflammatory treatments all together.

Concerned about diabetes? A recent study conducted by Louisiana State University found that supplementation with Omega-3 fatty acids resulted in significant improvement in insulin function in overweight individuals who are vulnerable to Type II diabetes.

Are you, or do you know anyone who is manic depressive? Researchers at Harvard University's McLean Hospital found that patients suffering from manic depression who were given Omega 3 capsules experienced a marked improvement over a four-month period.

How about asthma? Taking Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation of the airways and reduce asthma attacks. According to Donald Rudin, in his book Omega-3 Oils, allergic disorders such as asthma may be triggered by too much Omega-6 and too little Omega-3 fats in our bodies. Excessive amounts of Omega-6 cause the body to produce antibodies that cause allergic reactions. Fish oil supplements can keep the Omega-6 fats in check and decrease the inflammatory reactions associated with asthma.

Do you have kids? Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the normal development of vision and brain function, especially in newborns and children. Studies have shown that babies given formulas supplemented with Omega-3 have better vision and score higher in skills and problem-solving tests, than babies on formulas that do not contain additional these essential fatty acids. Supplements containing Omega-3 fats have also reportedly been effective in children with ADHD as well.

Interested in preventing cancer? Omega-3 fatty acids inhibit tumor growth when injected into animals. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to prevent cancer of the breast, colon and prostate. Omega-3 fats strengthen the immune systems and inhibit the inflammation and blood circulation of the tumors.

Omega-3 is even good for your dog. According to a study at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, fish oil supplements help thwart the loss of muscle mass in dogs suffering from heart disease (as well as making their coats healthy and shiny).

OK, that's enough data. What I don't understand is why, with the accumulation of the all the evidence, why isn't everyone starting their day with Omega-3? It isn't like it's painful or something. All you have to do is take a few capsules. No muss, no fuss, no sweat. Is it laziness? How much easier could it be? Is it doubt? Do you think this Omega-3 stuff is just something we've made up? If you don't trust ZonePerfect.com (as insulting as that would be), then how about ABC News or CNN? Could it be that you don't know where to get it? Have you forgotten how to get to our store.

Well I don't have the answer to these questions, but I'm getting downright frustrated by this state of affairs. Here we have definitive proof of the many health benefits that result from taking fish oil capsules, and most of you still aren't bothering to take them. I've seen the sales numbers (see, I told you I was trying to sell something) and unless everyone is buying their Omega 3 somewhere else (and why would you?), there are an awful lot of regular readers who aren't taking their daily dose. If you don't want me to harp on the subject of Omega 3 every week, then do yourself a favor. Lay in a supply of capsules and start taking them every day. Give them to your husband, your wife, your kids, your dogs, your Great Aunt Ida - in fact give them to anyone you care about. Taking Omega 3 is simply one of the easiest and best things you can do to improve your overall health.