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Omega-3 — Are You Getting Enough?†
Over the years, Canadians have become increasingly knowledgeable about how certain nutrients can play an important role in keeping us active and healthy. For example, most people know that calcium is essential for building strong bones and teeth, and that Vitamin C helps maintain our immune system. Lately we've also begun to understand the vital role that Omega-3 essential fatty acids, like DHA and EPA, play in our diet.
Omega-3s are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids found primarily in fish and which include DHA and EPA, and necessary for brain and eye development in children1. Studies suggest that Omega-3 also plays an important role in preventing macular degeneration2 — a leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 65. Omega-3s can also offer protection against heart disease, certain forms of cancer, diabetes and arthritis3.
While we need Omega-3 for proper functioning and to maintain overall health, our bodies cannot manufacture it. This is why it is so important that we eat a variety of foods that are rich in this essential fatty acid. Omega-3 can be found in some plants, like dark leafy vegetables, and in flaxseed oil, but by far the richest source of Omega-3 is found in cold water fish such as salmon and mackerel. According to the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation, "eating broiled, baked or steamed fish two to three times a week is a good way of increasing the Omega-3 fat in your diet"4.
With so many varieties of fish available today, and an endless source of quick and delicious recipes to try, you'll want to eat fish every day — and that's good news for your health!
Sources:
1. http://www.connectwithkids.com/tipsheet/2005/255_nov16/fish.html
2. http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/amd.htm
3. http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,5033,s6-53-0-0-4778,00.html
4. http://ww2.heartandstroke.ca
For more information about Omega-3 essential fatty acids, visit:
1. http://www.aboutseafood.com/dietitian/question
2. http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,5033,s6-53-0-0-4778,00.html
†NOTE: High Liner provides articles that we believe may be of interest to visitors to this site. However, they are provided for your interest and convenience only, and we make no representations or warranties and disclaim any liability with respect to the accuracy or reliability of any of the information included or conveyed in these articles.
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