Omega 6 and Omega 3 Imbalance is Making us Sick! Read to Know More…
Effects of Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids are opposing; therefore, one
needs to maintain a healthy ratio in consumption of both these fats. Since
evolution, the humans are known to evolve on Omega 6 and Omega 3 ratio
of 1:1; but a large variation in this ratio has been noticed in today’s western
diet.
Research reveals that modern western diet implicit a huge imbalance in
n6n3 ratio ranging between 15:1 and 17:1. The intake of Omega 6 in daily diet
is much higher than Omega 3. Omega 3 fatty acids are known to prevent wide
ranging medical conditions such as brain dysfunction, arthritis, depression,
asthma, cardiovascular diseases and many more.
For most people, the ratio of 4:1 is known to be ideal for maintaining
perfect Omega 6 and Omega 3 balance. It implies 4 Omega 6s in lieu to
every 1 Omega 3. However, the experts say maintaining 1:1 ratio is preferred.
How to Maintain a Perfect n6n3 Ratio?
To maintain a balanced ratio of n6n3 fatty acids in the human body, it
is important to know the sources from where these fats can be obtained. Many
supplements are known to provide Omega 3 to our body. Vegetable oils are rich
in Omega 6 fats and sunflower oil contains as high as 75% Omega 6 but 0% Omega
3.
Fish oils are known to contain 100% Omega 3 with 0% Omega 6. However,
sunflower oil, cottonseed, soybean oil and corn are rich in Omega 6 fats with
more than 50% volumes. It is comparatively easier for non-vegetarians to consume
Omega rich diet as seafood contains Omega 3 fatty acids in high volumes.
For people who rely upon vegetarian diet, oils, nuts and seeds are known
to be the good source of Omega 3 fatty acids. They can ensure regular intake
through daily addition of these components to their diet. When it’s not
possible to include Omega 3 in the diet on daily basis it is advisable to take
supplements regularly to optimize availability of fatty acids in the body and
avoid triggering the chances of Omega 6 and Omega 3 imbalance.
Know the Nature of Omega 6 and Omega 3 Fats!
Omega 3 is neutral while Omega 6 is pro-inflammatory in nature. Inflammation
is the root cause of various diseases. Most of our diet like vegetable oil,
margarine, soy contains high levels of omega 6. To reduce inflammation one need
to consume diet with a lot of omega-3 and less much omega-6.
To conclude, it is essential to keep a close track on the ratio of Omega
6 and Omega 3 fats and consume it in a balance to maintain 1:1 ratio. It is
advised to add coconut oil, sunflower oil, flaxseeds, avocado, salmon, raw
organic products, animal fats, etc. to the daily diet to ensure n6n3 balanced
consumption.
In addition, Omega 3 can be found in rich volume in these foods- walnut
(66%), Atlantic Mackerel (174%), Alaskan salmon (42%), sardines (34%), hemp
seeds (25%), egg yolks (6%), white fish (34%), cod liver oil (66%), herrings
(47%) and chia seeds (61%).
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