Omega-3 fatty acids have been the topic of conversation within the health and wellness field for some time now. These essential fatty acids have been deemed as holding potent anti-inflammatory benefits and even memory-boosting powers. Unfortunately, the average Joe isn’t getting enough of this healthy fat into their diet. The standard American diet is ridden with damaged fats found in things like canola oil, a source of omega-6 fatty acid which can increase inflammation.
The thing about these particular fatty acids is that our body relies on the foods we eat to get our fill, as we are not able to produce these fatty acids on our own. However, we want a healthy balance of omega-3’s to omega-6, ideally getting more omega-3’s to help reduce inflammation and even prevent health threats like heart disease.
While essential fatty acids are beneficial for everyone, here are four reasons why people with diabetes need to get more omega-3’s in their diet.
#1: Improve Memory Function
Having diabetes has been linked to a higher risk of poor memory function. To prevent memory decline, increasing omega-3 fatty acids intake may not only help boost your overall mood but also your memory as well.
#2: Reduce Triglyceride Levels
Those with diabetes are often at risk for having higher triglyceride levels. It’s been documented that omega-3 fatty acids such as the fatty acids from fish can help lower triglyceride levels as well as apoproteins which are common markers of diabetes! Turns out that weekly piece of salmon may be doing more good than you thought.
#3: Boost HDL Cholesterol
There are two types of cholesterol. There’s the LDL cholesterol, which is the kind you want less of, and then the HDL cholesterol which is the kind you want more of! Confusing, I know, but remember it this way: H for happy and L for lousy. High cholesterol can be an accompanying issue with diabetes, but there are things you can do about it. As it turns out, adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet may be able to increase your total HDL levels.
#4: Improve Cardiovascular Health
With diabetes comes an increased risk of heart disease. With the right preventative steps, you could protect your heart starting today. Many studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help lower blood pressure, as well as plaque buildup in the arteries which can ultimately reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Pretty amazing, right?
If you want to start turning your health around for the better and add some omega-3 rich foods to your diet, here are some foods to help get you started!
- Salmon
- Mackerel
- Walnuts
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseeds
- Hempseeds
- Egg yolks
[expand title=”References“]
Dr. Axe. URL link. Accessed January 19, 2017.
University of Maryland Medical Center. URL link. Accessed January 19, 2017.
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