Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular the long-chain fats eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) found abundantly in oily fish, continue to shine as nutrients that promote health and wellbeing. In addition to well-known benefits to the heart and vascular system, researchers investigating omega-3s are uncovering new arenas for their broad spectrum of health effects, including some not previously explored.
The importance of omega-3s supplementation stems from several factors; firstly, modern diets are woefully inadequate in terms of their omega-3 content, whereas traditional diets were much higher in omega-3s. Additionally, anti-inflammatory omega-3s counteract the effects of the more ubiquitous omega-6 fats (from various vegetable oils), which are pro-inflammatory by nature and are overabundant in modern diets. Restoring this imbalance and shifting the omega-3: omega-6 intake ratio to include more omega-3s should be a goal for anyone who is looking to stay healthy.
Studies show that adults in the United States are falling short of even modest intake goals for omega-3 fats. It is clear that a greater emphasis on diet and supplementary measures is needed to enhance individual intakes of these critical health-promoting fats. Emerging data has opened the door to research into significant benefits of omega-3s for unique indications. Recent studies have explored the effects of omega-3s in aging adults and in several chronic illnesses. Read more at: http://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/omega-3/new-breakthroughs-omega-3-research