So yesterday we looked at what omega-3s are...
A brief recap: omega-3s are fats. Fortunately the field of dietetics has evolved past the nineties mentality that fats are evil. Omega-3s are definitely not evil, and may (in fact) be key to good health. That brings us to today's topic...
Why do we want to consume omega-3s?
Omega-3s can... help prevent cancer cell growth, reduce inflammation, lower your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, prevent excessive blood clotting, prevent thickening of the arteries, reduce cytokine secretion (linked to atherosclerosis) and increase leptin secretion (hormone that helps regulate food intake).
As you can see, the buzz and hype surrounding omega-3s is well deserved. Tomorrow we will look at how to increase your omega-3 intake...
Enjoy!
References:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fish-oil/ns_patient-fishoil
http://whfoods.org/genpage.php?tname=nutrient&dbid=84
http://216.185.112.5/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4632
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omega-3_fatty_acid