Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in our health, affecting everything from mental well-being to heart health. Here are seven fascinating facts about omega-3s that highlight their importance and some surprising sources:
1. Psychosis and Omega-3 Levels: A large study spanning 17 years and involving 3,484 young adults found a link between low levels of omega-3s and symptoms of psychosis in 24-year-olds.
2. Historical Use of Snake Oil: The use of snake oil as medicine dates back to ancient Chinese practices. Chinese water snakes, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, were used to reduce inflammation in arthritis sufferers. Immigrants brought this practice to America but had to use rattlesnakes, which are low in omega-3s.
3. Earthworms as a Source: Not only fish oil is rich in omega-3s; earthworms are 82% protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and can be prepared with cumin and curry.
4. Farm-Raised Tilapia: Farm-raised tilapia are low in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and high in omega-6 fatty acids, which are less beneficial.
5. Omega-3 in Seaweed: Nori, the seaweed commonly used in sushi, contains significant amounts of omega-3 fats. One sheet of nori has the equivalent omega-3 content of one serving of avocado.
6. Blood Pressure Benefits: Consuming about 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids daily may help lower blood pressure. Approximately 4-5 ounces of Atlantic salmon provide this amount of omega-3s.
7. Organic Foods: According to a meta-analysis of nearly 200 studies, organic dairy and meat contain 50% more omega-3s than their non-organic counterparts.
8. Aging and Cellular Protection: Omega-3 supplements may help slow the effects of aging by suppressing damage and boosting protection at the cellular level during and after stressful events. A study found that the highest dose tested, 2.5 grams of omega-3s daily, was the most effective in helping the body resist the damaging effects of stress.