I have heard a lot about the benefits of eating Omega 3 fatty acids but because a major source is fish oil, which isn't very appealing, I never looked further into it. But then I watched a news article on how Omega 3 could prevent some serious diseases I decided to look into it again.

This article will provide some basic information on Omega 3, to include, where to get a good source of Omega 3 and the many health benefits.

Source:

The number one source is fish and the types of fish used to make the Omega 3 plays an important role. Some of the best fish is anchovies and sardenes. A process called fattening is used to increase the omega 3 level in the flesh by feeding farmed fish oil-based feed. An important side note, if you eat plenty of fish, you will not need omega 3 supplement. And for those getting their omega 3 fatty acids through fish, a portion of oily fish once or twice a week is adequate. Other good sources of Omega 3 fatty acids are hemp oil and walnuts.

Other than taking fish oil capsules, there really aren't too many other supplemental sources of omega 3 fatty acids.

Health Benefits:

Intake of omega 3 fats, especially from fish, may decrease blood pressure and thin the blood. Omega 3 fish oils are considered anti-inflammatory and helpful for arthritis, asthma, depression and bipolar disease. In some studies Omega 3 relieves both arthritis pain and inflammation.

It seems the Omega 3 fatty acids found in cold water fish increase the levels of fatty acids in blood cell membranes. Studies suggest that individuals at risk for coronary heart disease benefit from the consumption of omega 3 fatty acids and fish oil.

Interesting facts:

In one well-known study, rats deprived of omega 3 fats showed memory loss and their ability to negotiate a maze was considerably reduced. Interestingly studies have shown that grass fed, free-range animals produce meat and milk higher in omega 3 fats than intensively farmed, grain fed animals.

In Conclusion:

Therefore it is important when selecting an omega 3 fish oil supplement to choose an Omega 3 oil that is both pure and strong. If you are worried about ingesting to much fat, remember that saturated fats (bad fats) are solid at room temperature, while omega 3 fats are liquid at room temperature. Professionals recommend, a person consuming 2000 calories per day would have to eat at least 2 grams of omega 3 fats for its beneficial properties.