Omega-3, Another myth in the making?
As studies proving the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids continue to crop up, food manufacturers have begun a campaign to include the healthy additive in a variety of everyday grocery products. Among others, Tropicana has announced that they will unveil their omega-3 rich orange juice.
What exactly is an omega fat? The “omega” classification refers to the chemical structure of unsaturated fats. The omega numbers 3, 6, and 9 refer to the location on the fat molecule where the hydrogen atom joins onto it. It is just basic chemical nomenclature, but these simple differences have profound biological effects in the body.
Of all of the fats, our bodies actually require only two: alpha-linolenic acid (an omega-3) and linoleic acid (an omega-6). As with some vitamins, our bodies need these two fats but cannot manufacture them. By using these as raw materials, however, we can manufacture all the other fats our bodies use.
Omega-6 fats are much more prevalent than omega-3 fats. Sources of the omega-6 linoleic acid include safflower and sunflower oils, and corn, soy, and canola oils. Sources of the omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid include flaxseed oil and blackcurrant seed oil. they can also be found in smaller amounts in certain nuts and seeds.
The optimal ration of omega-6 to omega-3 fats in our diet is between 2;1 and 4;1, whereas the standard American diet has a ration of more than 20:1. this means most of us need to increase our intake of omega-3 fats and reduce our intake of omega–6 fats.
Important omega-3 fatty acids in nutrition are: a-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Studies have shown omega-3 fats can cut the risk of heart disease, assist in brain development. and even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Recent research at Harvard has shown that supplemental essential fatty acids can improve the symptoms of bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder. This is based on the fundamental understanding that the cells of the brain normally contain high levels of DHA, which is also commonly found in fish fat, and that adequate levels of this type of fat are critical for healthy communication between brain cells.
The positive effects of omega-3 fatty acids are not really disputed, and both the American Heart Association and the FDA are in support of omega-3s, but some nutritionists note that foods with naturally occurring omega-3s are still healthier than foods with the fatty acid added.