Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body cannot make from scratch but must get from food. They are needed to build cell membranes throughout the body and affect the function of the cell receptors in these membranes. They also provide the starting point for making hormones that regulate blood clotting, inflammation, and other processes.
Remember that we must also get Essential Amino Acids
There are two main types of omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are mainly found in cold-water fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines. EPA and DHA play critical roles in maintaining brain and body health. EPA plays a role in supporting a healthy inflammatory response at the cellular level, while DHA is the most abundant omega-3 found in the brain and is important for maintaining brain and nerve cell structure and function.
Fatty Acids from Plants are also well known but may have to be converted by the body back to EPA and DHA.
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid, classified as an essential fatty acid because the human body cannot produce it and must obtain it from dietary sources. Here’s more information about ALA, including its sources and its potential uses:
Sources of ALA:
Flaxseeds and Flaxseed Oil: Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil are among the richest sources of ALA. Ground flaxseeds can be easily incorporated into cereals, yogurt, or smoothies.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are another excellent plant-based source of ALA. They can be added to beverages, yogurt, or used as an ingredient in various recipes.
Walnuts: Walnuts are a good source of ALA and can be enjoyed as a snack, added to salads, or used in baking.
Canola Oil: Canola oil contains a moderate amount of ALA and can be used in cooking and salad dressings.
Soybeans and Soy Products: Soybeans and soy-based products, such as tofu and edamame, are plant-based sources of ALA.
Brussels Sprouts: While not as high as some other sources, Brussels sprouts contain a small amount of ALA and contribute to overall intake.
Leafy Green Vegetables: Certain leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and kale, contain small amounts of ALA.
Omega-3 fatty acids can also inhibit an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which produces the prostaglandin hormones that spark inflammation. This action is similar to what happens when one takes an aspirin, which disrupts the COX-2 signaling pathway, thus reducing inflammation and pain.
Hence why cancer protocols sometime reference to the baby aspirin
You may have heard that cancers protocols sometimes ask person to look into baby aspirin. The break the signaling pathway and reduce the inflammation which is what can lead to malignant cell growth.
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have various health benefits, such as preventing heart disease and stroke, improving cognitive function, enhancing mood, reducing symptoms of autoimmune diseases, and protecting against some types of cancer.
To get enough omega-3 fatty acids, it is recommended to eat at least two servings of fatty fish per week or take a supplement that contains EPA and DHA. The amount of omega-3 fatty acids needed may vary depending on age, health status, and individual needs. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
Some Reference Site for Further reading
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: An Essential Contribution | The Nutrition Source | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/fats-and-cholesterol/types-of-fat/omega-3-fats/
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Health Professional Fact Sheet https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional/?ref=popsugar.com&=__psv__p_46682300__t_w
- Omega-3 for Hormones with OmegaXanthin | Garden of Life https://www.gardenoflife.com/oceans-3-healthy-hormones-omega-3-omegaxanthin-softgels
- Why Omega-3 Oils Help at the Cellular Level – today.ucsd.edu https://today.ucsd.edu/story/why_omega_3_oils_help_at_the_cellular_level/
- Why Omega-3s Are Good for You – Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-omega-3s-are-good-for-you
