Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fats, any deficiency of these oils results in symptoms that can be corrected through a diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 benefits are immense and these fatty acids form an essential part of a healthy diet and nutrition.

It is well known that skin is the first to show symptoms of any diet deficiency that needs to be fixed. Deficiency symptoms are also visible by examining nails and hairs. The most neglected deficiency is that of Omega 3 fatty acids. Surprisingly, even doctors show scant concern about the lack of omega 3 fatty acids in the diet or about these symptoms. Hence, certain symptoms either remain untreated or undiagnosed or may be prolonged or worsen. Omega 3 fatty acids deficiency is known as FADS or Fatty Acid Deficiency Syndrome.

The common symptoms of deficient omega 3 fatty acids include:

A study claiming that 40% of deaths are caused due to high LDL levels was published in the online journal PLOS medicine of Harvard School of Public Health. The diet we eat now is rich in trans-fats and low in unsaturated fatty acids such as omega 3 fatty acids. Research proves that omega3 benefits include improved triglyceride levels, lowered rate of atherosclerotic plaque formation, and lower blood pressure (slightly), and arrhythmias (abnormal heartbeats) that can often lead to sudden death. A review paper by Ruxton, published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics 2004, concluded that Omega 3 fatty acids decrease the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and sudden death due to Coronary Heart Disease. My choice to prevent heart disease is to recommend Omega 3 Fish Oil from BestSource Nutrition, as it has natural triglycerides and is free from metals, making it safe for the heart patient.

DHA holds the prime place for the development of the human brain. Omega 3 is among fats that occupy 60% of the human brain. A lower intake of omega 3 fatty acids in the diet is the main cause of increased symptoms of brain infirmity and reduced cognitive effect of omega3 benefits. The deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids may lead to a weakening of myelin sheath covering nerve and brain cells. Various studies have proven that children with DHA deficiency show symptoms such as learning infirmities, low attention or concentration, and memory shortfall disorder. These symptoms are significant in determining that the diet is deficient in omega 3 fatty acids. A review article by Welma Stonehouse published in Nutrients 2014 stated that consumption of long-chain omega3 fatty acids, particularly fish oil DHA, may enhance cognitive performance relating to learning, brain development, memory, speed of performing the cognitive task, age-related cognitive decline, and mild cognitive impairment. Hence omega 3 benefits can improve and correct symptoms affecting brain functioning.

A vital symptom of low omega 3 fatty acids is depression and anxiety. Omega 3 benefits include lowering depression and anxiety. Elizabeth Somer asserts that the consumption of a diet comprising of rich sources of Omega 3 fatty acids is directly proportional to a low incidence of depression. Studies reveal that countries that consume a high amount of fish oil in any form have good ranges of omega 3 fatty acids, which decreases depression rates by 60%. Omega3 fatty acids are a crucial constituent of the neurotransmitter serotonin that is imperative in improving mood. A study published in Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity edition March 2014 has stated that intake of omega 3 fatty acids reduces the incidence of depression by preventing and treating these symptoms naturally.

The deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids leads to dry skin. Other symptoms include dry hair, eczema, dry eyes, and frail, weak, and brittle nails. It is believed that Omega 3 fatty acids are effective in lowering inflammation in the body. It is advisable to take fish oil to get complete omega 3 benefits for the body such as preventing skin shrinking, tenderness, and stiffness. A meta-analysis in 2010 established that fish oil considerably reduced tenderness and stiffness. A recent study published in the British Journal of Dermatology claimed that if supplementation of fish oil that is enriched in omega 3 fatty acids (DHA) is given for two months regularly, it could improve symptoms for 23% of people suffering from eczema. Another study claims that consuming about 1.8 g of EPA daily for three months can lower symptoms of eczema because it lessens leukotriene B4 that provokes eczema. However, for eczema,I advise patients to take care while choosing the best Omega 3 supplement, which should be free from PCBs and dioxins. That is why I always recommend Omega 3 Fish oil from BestSource Nutrition, as this uses natural triglycerides, which are easily absorbed by the intestine.

Macular degeneration, a chronic eye disease, is also among symptoms of low omega 3 fatty acids. It disturbs the tissue of the retina (which is responsible for central vision) named macula. As a result, a person may suffer from blurred vision or a blind spot in the focus of the vision. This can interfere with driving, reading, and other daily activities. A study by Seddon JM published in Rosner Arch Ophthalmology Journal Dec 2003 stated that omega 3 fatty acids may demolish the growth of macular degeneration. Likewise, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition by Cho E in August 2008 concluded that eating fish (rich in fish oil or oily fish once a week) or having omega 3 fatty acids as supplements might reduce the chances of progressive macular degeneration.

According to USFDA, eating fish is very beneficial for overall health. However, it has cautioned against eating fish containing high amounts of mercury. Forgetting the full omega 3 benefits, omega 3 fish oil supplements are better as compared to fish. My choice is Omega 3 Fish Oil from BestSource Nutrition, which is free from sea metals, dioxins, and PCBs and does not have a fishy smell.

Thus, Omega 3 benefits multiple areas of life to keep us healthy.