Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Found in Chia Seeds

Omega-3 or fish oil is one of the most promising nutrients studied right now. There is strong evidence to suggest that it can aid in fighting inflammation, depression, and may have strong benefits in maintaining a healthy body fat percentage. The chia seed is one of the most effective bioavailable dense source omega-3 fatty acids. Most people talk of using fish or expensive supplements to receive enough omega-3, which may not be the most cost effective source of the essential fatty acid. Salmon provides a half gram of omega-3 per ounce while chia seed provides almost 5 grams per ounce. In fact, the USDA recommends that most adults have at least 8 ounces of fish a week to get sufficient omega-3. The chia seed has more omega-3 in one ounce than 8 ounces of salmon.

Inflammation

Omega-3 acids make eicosanoids which are vital hormone components in fighting inflammation in the body and maintaining the immunity system. A body deficient in Omega-3 might experience a higher incidence of colds, joint stiffness, and other unexplained pains because the body lacks what is necessary to fight inflamed tissue. Elevated inflammation is linked too rheumatoid arthritis, and allergies. Studies have shown that omega-3 is effective in treating the symptoms of inflammation, as well as helping the body prevent inflammation. Some suggest a majority of health problems come from inflammation, which leads to other more serious health problems.

Depression

Omega-3 supplements relieve symptoms associated with depression, in fact, some studies have determined that lower levels of omega-3 can be an effective in diagnosing depression. While a deficiency in omega-3 does not automatically mean depression, clinical studies where omega-3 supplements combined with anti-depressant medications show promise in treating depression symptoms.

Body fat

When the body is deficient in necessary nutrients fat accumulates. Some studies have linked the body fat with the presence of inflammation in the body. By effectively treating inflammation, the body is better able to utilize stored body fat. By giving the body the ability to deal with inflammation, it does not need to store fat. The key to fat loss is using stored body fat, which inflammation inhibits.

When looking at all the benefits omega-3 provides it becomes obvious the body needs a dependable source of omega-3. While omega-3 is abundant in nature, not all food has the density in a cheap bioavailable form. Simply adding an ounce of chia seed to the diet will give the body what it needs of this valuable nutrient. A good affordable source of omega-3 is the chia seed.