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A recent study found that eight out of every ten Australians have below target Omega-3 levels. But what are Omega-3s, and how can you make sure you are getting enough of them?

 

What are Omega-3s?

If you regularly eat salmon, krill, sardines and walnuts, plus dark leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach, then you’re doing a good job of supporting your joint, heart, brain and eye health, and overall wellbeing.

Why?

Because these foods all contain Omega-3 fatty acids. Our bodies can’t make these essential fats, so it must source them from our diet.

 

Omega-3 fats are part of a family of polyunsaturated fats:

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid): these essentials fats are mainly found in fish

ALA (Alpha-linolenic acid) – sourced from vegetable oils, walnuts, flax seeds, leafy green vegetables and fat from grass-fed animals.

If your diet is lacking in the above, supplementation is available through Krill Oil, which is a more easily absorbed form of Omega-3.

 

Why we need Omega-3s

Our bodies require Omega-3s to function well, and may prevent inflammatory diseases. Research shows that Omega-3 fats may help reduce the risk of arrhythmias.

Research found that those with higher-than-average levels of Omega-3 fatty acids in their blood may be 30 per cent less likely than those with the lowest levels, to develop atrial fibrillation, which can lead to stroke or heart failure. Similar studies have shown a reduction of the risk of cardiac death and major coronary event.

 

Take the test

The Omega-3 Index – a simple, self-administered finger prick test – helps your health practitioner understand whether you have enough of EPA and DHA levels in your red blood cells. Once you have received your results, you can discuss your health options and forward plan with your health practitioner.

The Omega-3 index Test is available through selected practitioners and pharmacies.

Always read the label. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare practitioner. Supplementation should not replace a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Always consult your healthcare practitioner.

Did you know about the importance of Omega-3? Let us know in the comments how you will be adding more Omega into your diet!

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  • Didn’t know the local pharmacy could give these tests – must see if mine does it although I do try to eat these foods.

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  • Great tips!

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  • What study, where and how were the tests done? This is all hogwash and just a push for people to waste their money on fish oil supplements which are have dangerously high levels of mercury in them. I recommend reading Anthony William’s book Medical medium, very informative reading for anyone who cares about their health. The best disease prevention is fruit and lots of it.

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  • I never knew this. Will have to see what I can do to increase my Omega 3 levels

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  • Yes I did and I do my best.

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  • Yes, I did know and we do try really hard to have our fill of Omega 3.

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  • Did already know all this but its a super great article all the same. thanks.

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  • Good tips, definitely something to look into.

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  • I’m not a big fan of fish, but I try to eat salmon sometimes. And we all take fish oil every day.


    • Fish oil is really dangerous especially for pregnant women as most of it has mercury in it, because most fish has mercury in it. Oil is also unhealthy and cause inflammation in your body.

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  • Yes I knew about the importance of omega 3s. Personally I eat a fair amount of nuts and seeds daily and love my spinach & kale :)

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  • This was a very interesting read and I do say I need to eat more fish! or try the krill supplements instead


    • You don’t need the fish, most fish has mercury in it so is really dangerous. Try flax seeds.

    Reply

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