A recent study on the effects of Omega 3 fatty acids examines their possible association to inflammation markers.
Inflammation
Inflammation is the immune system’s response to infections and injuries. As it normally acts in the removal of offending factors to restore tissue structure and function.
When inflammation becomes chronic, however, it can lead to and is correlated with, a whole host of diseases. As it entails pathogenesis of arthritis, cancer, stroke, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases.
Inflammation is an important factor in the body’s response system. As it is indeed necessary. But to keep inflammation at a balanced level does contribute to overall health.
Omega 3
This study Fish oil supplementation alters circulating eicosanoid concentrations in young healthy men is one of several on the topic of Omega 3 and its association with inflammation.
It provides compelling evidence that Omega 3 does indeed improve the body’s state of inflammation. And thus contribute to overall health.
The researchers divided 10 healthy young men into two groups. Each group receiving either Omega 3 or Sunflower Oil capsule. With a total amount of fish oil containing 2.0 grams of EPA and 1.0 grams of DHA (both fatty acids found Omega 3).
The participants were then examined before and after a 3 month period. With each participants having to give a blood sample that was analyzed to investigate changes in FA profiles, bioclinical parameters, inflammation markers.
Supplementation with omega 3 improved circulating triglyceride levels and the HDL-c ratio while, concomitantly, increasing the concentrations of two eicosanoids (prostaglandin-F2α and thromboxane-B2).
The researchers conclude that:
“fish oil supplementation does have significant benefits in young healthy adults”
Some common sources of animal omega–3 /EPA and DHA fatty acids) include fish oils, algal oil, egg oil, squid oils, krill oil. Also, some plant oils contain omega 3 (ALA fatty acid), such as seabuckthorn seed, flaxseed oil, Sacha Inchi oil, Echium oil, and hemp oil.
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Fish oil supplementation alters circulating eicosanoid concentrations in young healthy men
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