For quite some time it has been common knowledge that omega-3 fatty acids are good for you, but do know how far-reaching their health benefits can be?
Recent research
Extensive research has linked omega-3 fatty acids consumption to everything from reduced cardiovascular disease to cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. The most study, however, is ground breaking. Recently published in the Netherland-based journal Pharma Nutrition, omega-3 supplementation "has been shown to augment the therapeutic efficacy of antidepressant, mood-stabilizer, and second generation antipsychotic medications, and may additionally mitigate adverse cardiometabolic side-effects." The efficacy in omega-3s in managing these issues is so profound that the researchers suggest incorporating them into psychiatric treatment algorithms. If psychiatrists adapt this approach, a breakthrough paradigm shift - from pharmaceutical interventions as the mainstay to a more natural approach - could change the course of mental heath treatment plans forever!
Omega-3 options
Necessary for optimal health and wellness, omega-3s are found in a plethora of foods. Unfortunately, most Americans lack in this vital nutrient. Whether you are a dedicated vegan or someone who enjoys eating meat, you should have no problem consuming omega-3s in your diet naturally. Some of the most abundant omega-3 foods include salmon, a variety of vegetables, and fish oils.
For vegans and vegetarians: It has been suggested that all vegans and vegetarians need to supplement omega-3 fatty acids, but this isn't the case. Let common sense be your guide. If you eat a diet rich in flaxseed, walnuts, and green veggies - such as Brussels sprouts, kale, spinach and salad greens - you're probably on the safe side. Omega-3 supplements are a relatively new product to hit the shelves and people who have historically lived on a vegan/vegetarian diet have done well without them.
Take, for example, the Blue Zone community from around the globe. Blue Zones are regions of the world whose elders live with vim and vigor to record-setting age and include some of the following areas: The highlands of Sardinia; the northern part Okinawa; and the Seventh-Day Adventist community in Lomo Linda, California. Every Blue Zone eats a predominantly plant-based diet and just a few eat just moderate amounts of meat. Most importantly, they don't overeat and have strategies to stave off gluttony - which ultimately does more harm than good, even if you're eating the right stuff. The Okinawans, for example, have a 3,000-year-old adage credited to Confucius that they say before their meal to remind them to stop eating when their stomach is 80 percent full.
For meat-eaters: Just because you eat meat and fish doesn't mean you can skimp on the veggies! Take the vegetarian diet to heart and add modest pieces of salmon to your meal plan. Remember to stay clear from eating too much meat in one sitting, otherwise you'll strain your digestive track too much. Eat a piece of salmon just about the size of a deck of cards two to three times a week. This is all you need.
