Why the importance of omega-3 fatty acids for health? The human body can make most of the types of fats it needs from other fats or raw materials. But the body can't make omega-3 fatty acids and must get them from food. Foods are high in Omega-3 fatty acids include algae, fish, vegetable oils, nuts (especially walnuts), flax seeds,flaxseed oil, and leafy vegetables.

The importance of omega-3 fatty acids for health

Why omega-3 fatty acids special?  What's the importance of omega-3 fatty acids ?They are an integral part of cell membranes throughout the body and affect the function of the cell receptors in these membranes. They provide the starting point for making hormones that regulate blood clotting, contraction and relaxation of artery walls, and inflammation. They also bind to receptors in cells that regulate genetic function. Likely due to these effects, omega-3 fats have been shown to help prevent heart disease and stroke, may help control lupus, eczema, and rheumatoid arthritis, and may play protective roles in cancer and other conditions.

Omega-3 fats are a key family of polyunsaturated fats. There are three main omega-3s:Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) come mainly from algae,fish, so they are sometimes called marine omega-3s.

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the most common omega-3 fatty acid in most Western diets, is found in vegetable oils and nuts (especially walnuts), flax seeds and flaxseed oil, leafy vegetables, and some animal fat, especially in grass-fed animals. The human body generally uses ALA for energy, and conversion into EPA and DHA is very limited. The strongest evidence for a beneficial effect of omega-3 fats has to do with heart disease. These fats appear to help the heart beat at a steady clip and not veer into a dangerous or potentially fatal erratic rhythm. Omega-3 fatty acids also lower blood pressure and heart rate, improve blood vessel function, and, at higher doses, lower triglycerides and may ease inflammation, which plays a role in the development of atherosclerosis.

Please see more: What is Omega-3 Fatty acids .