Various types of bread lay on a counter
Adding whole grains, vegetables, healthy fats, and more is the first step to eating more healthy foods.

Healthy Fatty Acids

Photo Credit: Rafal Stachura / iStockPhoto.com

4. Healthy Fatty Acids

Omega fatty acids are naturally occurring, healthy acids the body needs but cannot manufacture — they have to be obtained from foods or supplements.

Omega fatty acids lower unhealthy cholesterol levels and improve the ratio of “good” cholesterol to “bad” cholesterol. They reduce inflammation and lower the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
Long-term studies of Yup’ik Eskimos in Alaska, who consume diets very high in essential fatty acids, reveal that rates of heart attacks, psoriasis, asthma, diabetes and multiple sclerosis are extremely low among that population. Research confirms that omega 3 fatty acids benefit all of those conditions.

Omega 3 fatty acids protect the liver. ALA, EPA, and DHA are essential fatty acids that reduce anxiety and promote good mental health.

Omega 6 fatty acids are abundant in many foods and do not need to be supplemented. Omega 7 fatty acid is found in macadamia nuts. It is especially beneficial for cardiovascular wellness.

Essential fatty acids may be obtained from cold, deep water, oily fish. Farm raised fish do not contain equal benefits. Mackerel, halibut, trout, sardines, salmon and bluefish are excellent sources of essential fatty acids. Canola oil, flax, and hempseeds are rich sources too.

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