Omega3 and women. You have probably heard about omega-3 fatty acids and their importance for women’s health. Many current research studies are discovering more and more benefits related to various organs and functions. Therefore, in this article we want you to get to know them better.
What is omega 3?
These are substances of a lipid nature that are known generically as polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are mainly composed of three types of molecules, called ALA, EPA and DHA.
Alpha-linolenic acid or ALA is short-chain and is obtained exclusively from the diet, which is why it is considered an essential fatty acid. You will find it in nuts, olive oil and seeds such as chia or flaxseed.
The long chain ones are eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA and docosahexaenoic acid or DHA and it is advisable to consume one of their essential sources: oily fish. They are synthesized by the body in small quantities and, for this reason, the recommended intake is is 1 to 2 %. of daily calories.
Effects of Omega 3 on disease prevention in women
The interest aroused by polyunsaturated fatty acids in the world scientific community is very relevant. It has led many agricultural producers to focus their efforts on fortifying meat and milk with these substances. The purpose is to benefit large population groups.
Arthritis and osteoarthritis
These diseases are associated with joint inflammation, pain and morning stiffness. These are symptoms that many elderly people suffer from and that deteriorate their quality of life. In Spain, osteoarthritis has a prevalence of 26% in individuals aged 50 to 69 years, especially among women.
among women
.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids decrease the intensity of symptoms and reduce the need to take high doses of anti-inflammatory drugs. This is because they participate in metabolic processes that block the production of inflammation-mediating substances.
Although they are not useful in the prevention of breast cancer, this anti-inflammatory action is essential in some women who have suffered from it. In many cases, they may have arthralgias as a side effect of treatment with aromatase inhibitors.
Immune system regulation
Chronic stress increases prostaglandin secretion. When elevated, they stimulate the activation of certain types of monocytes and cytokines, which induce chronic inflammation and resistance to adrenal hormones.
Prostaglandins also appear to be responsible for menstrual pain, known by the medical term dysmenorrhea. Oral administration of fish oil, rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, seems to alleviate discomfort.
On the other hand, polyunsaturated fatty acids modulate the immune mechanisms involved in the onset of diseases such as diabetes, ulcerative colitis and psoriasis.
In menopause
Omega-3s have important effects associated with menopause. In addition to helping to maintain skin hydration and elasticity, they provide the following health benefits:
- Relieve bothersome symptoms: Such as sweating and hot flashes.
- Protect against cardiovascular diseases: This is crucial because they become more frequent at this stage of life.
- They generate an improvement in brain function: This helps to control the psychological alterations typical of menopause, such as anxiety and depression.
Fetal and infant development
DHA fatty acid is part of the tissue structure of the retina and nervous system, which are formed during intrauterine life. Throughout gestation and especially in the last trimester, they are transferred to the fetus via the placenta. DHA acid is also secreted in breast milk, which further promotes these functions.
As you surmise, the mother should consume a diet rich in dietary sources of omega-3. This is of utmost importance for developing the child’s cognitive skills and visual acuity.
A lower than recommended intake produces fewer slow brain waves during sleep. The decrease of these tracings in the electroencephalogram is an indicator of poor maturation of the nervous system.
The Mediterranean diet
Relevant clinical studies have endorsed the Mediterranean diet as indispensable for the prevention of many chronic pathologies of autoimmune and inflammatory origin. Its benefits can be attributed in large part to the sources of fats that are used in this type of food. They consist basically of olive oil, oily fish and nuts, which provide DHA, ALA and EPA fatty acids.
At Phytogen Medical Foods, our goal is to provide you with a healthy lifestyle with natural and scientifically proven products . We offer you the Olimina 3 food supplement, which contains omega 3, curcumin and polyphenols derived from olive oil. Thanks to these components, it has a synergistic effect in relieving the symptoms of arthritis and osteoarthritis. On our website you will find more information aimed at providing you with the wellness you need.