Stress, as most people say is a Modern disease that is the root cause for several problems. Stress and omega 3 fatty acids have an inverse relationship i.e. the lesser your intake of omega 3, the higher are your stress levels.
The diet of most of the Western population consists of processed foods that are rich in Omega 6 fatty acids. This has disrupted the balance between omega 3 and omega 6 fats and is the leading factor for cardiovascular diseases, joint pain and other physical and mental ailments.
Studies show that people who consume omega 3 supplements regularly – are able to cope with stressful situations in a better way.
Omega 3s are a family of polyunsaturated fats that are crucial for the effective functioning of our brain and heart. They comprise of Docosahexaenoic acid, Eicosapentaenoic acid and Alpha-linolenic acid.
Unlike Omega 6 fats, the food sources of Omega 3 are limited. The richest source of Omega 3s are cold-water fishes such as Salmon, Tuna, Mackerel and Hoki. Vegetarian sources consist of green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and broccoli. Certain vegetable oils like flaxseed and canola oil are rich in ALA fats.
Omega 3 and Stress reduction have been linked for various reasons. Regular consumption of fish oils triggers the secretion of Prostaglandin, a hormone-like substance that regulates the functioning of our immune system and fights stress.
People who consume an omega 3 rich diet experience better heath and reduced stress levels than those who don’t consume enough of these fats. The EPA and DHA fats present in Omega 3 maintain healthy levels of serotonin hormone. Serotonin is responsible for controlling emotional responses and creating a sense of well-being.
Doctors recommend fish oils to those suffering from Stress, depression and other mental disorders. Fish oils such as the ones extracted from the Hoki fish have very high levels of DHA and EPA fats. The Hoki fish is found in the cold ocean waters of New Zealand and has naturally high DHA and EPA content.
A not so direct but obvious link between stress and omega 3 is the numerous health benefits of Omega 3s. Regular intake of good quality fish oil improves your general health and provides respite from many diseases. A healthy individual obviously experiences mental calmness and is able to deal with stress efficiently.
Both DHA and EPA are known to reduce triglycerides and increase the HDL cholesterol levels in the blood stream. This helps in controlling cholesterol levels and reduces the risks of cardiovascular diseases. Fish oils also prevent us from breast, prostate or colon cancer.
Skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis and various allergies can get very problematic and increase the stress levels in an individual. Omega 3s can completely cure skin disorders giving you a radiant complexion.
Another link between Omega 3 and being stressed is that Omega 3 fatty acids have blood thinning properties that enables proper blood flow throughout the body and to the brain. Better blood flow enables better nerve communication and relief from stress.
Now that you have understood the relationship between Omega 3 and stress reduction, it is time to purchase a pharmaceutical grade, molecularly distilled fish oil. This will ensure that you get the maximum amount of EPA and DHA fats and maintain your physical and mental health.