An essential nutrient is one that is needed, but cannot be made by the body. We must consume these nutrients either through the diet or via supplementation. Omega 3 fatty acids are just that, an essential nutrient. They are involved in a variety of cellular functions including: Improving cell membrane and cell function; increasing ability to regulate physiological functions; increase in immune function; benefit fatty acid ratio; and needed for neural development and maintenance. Research has also shown a wide variety of benefits to overall health and to disease processes: Fibromyalgia, allergies, depression and bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, autoimmune disease, autism, cardiovascular diseases, back pain, diabetes, osteoarthritis, asthma, pain, inflammation and many more conditions are improved with increased omega 3 intake. Unfortunately our diets are usually low in this fatty acid and/or have trouble breaking them down because the body is also lacking in the necessary co-factors, thus leading to many preventable disease processes. Omega 3 should be included in the diet and for many it is helpful to supplement this powerful nutrient.
Omega 6 is also an essential fatty acid which is usually too high in most diets causing prolonged inflammation in the body and leading to various health problems. This omega 6 to 3 ratio should be 3:1 to 1:1 ideally. Here is a short list of foods and their omega 6 to 3 ratios.
Pro-inflammatory
Grains - 10:1
Wheat bread – 27:1
White bread – 21:1
Grain-fed meat – 5:1
Potato chips – 60:1
Seeds/Oils – 70:1
Grain-fed chicken – 17:1
Anti-inflammatory
Fruit – 3:1
Broccoli – 1:3
Potato – 3:1
Grass-fed meat – 3:1
Sweet potato – 4:1
Flax, hemp, chia seeds – 3:1
Fish – 1:1

Remember the key to good health is a multifaceted and integrative approach.
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