 |
Omega 3 and Weight LossBut is it really true that omega 3 and weight loss go hand in hand? Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid (EFA) that is found in oily fish such as salmon, tuna, swordfish and trout. It is also found in walnuts and flaxseeds, olive, canola and flaxseed oils and also soybeans. EFAs, such as omega 3, have been proven in multiple studies to enhance weight loss. Some studies have shown that the intake of omega 3 and weight loss are not only related, but omega 3 actually increases the number of calories you can eat without gaining weight. More importantly, omega 3s balance another EFA, omega 6. Omega 6 is found in foods such as eggs, margarine and poultry. EFAs are called “Essential” because they are necessary for the proper functioning of the body, as well as normal growth and development. EFA deficiency can lead to certain skin conditions like dermatitis. It can also be responsible for infertility. With the right balance of EFAs in your body, your hair will look healthy and shiny, your metabolism will be well regulated and even your bones will be healthier. But when these two groups of fat get out of balance in the body, bad things can happen. Too many Omega 6s can lead to blood thickening and heart disease. Depression and cancer have also been attributed to an excess of Omega 6. The recommended ratio of Omega 6 and Omega 3 is thought to be about 4 to 1. That is four parts Omega 6 to 1 part Omega 3. However the average American diet is estimated to be closer to 10 to 1 or even in the 20 to 1 range. Our diets have been showing a steady increase in the amount of Omega 6 fats that we consume, and a steady decrease in the amount of Omega 3 fats that we eat over the last 50 or 60 years. Even more important than the relationship between Omega 3 and weight loss, is the relationship between omega 3 and good health. There are actually two types of Omega 3 EFAs. The kind found in fish oil are known as long chain fatty acids, while the kind found in vegetables, nuts and other plants are known as short chain fatty acids. Some studies have indicated that when study groups were fed the omega 3s found in fish, they experienced more weight loss in general than study groups fed the other kind, and were able to metabolize more calories without gaining weight. But before you put yourself on an all fish diet, you should know that some researchers warn against a diet too rich in fish, because of the dangers of mercury poisoning associated with fish. When all is said and done, research is pretty conclusive as to the positive connection between omega 3 and weight loss. And as we find with so many other things in life, the real key to a healthy diet and successful weight maintenance is balance and moderation. Philip Kustner
Check out the advantages of Omega 3 fatty acids. Return
to the top of Omega 3 and Weight Loss  
The
information found in and throughout The 7 Habits of Weight loss
(www.7habitsofweightloss.com) is not intended as a substitute for the
advice or treatment that may have been prescribed by your physician.Information
found here should NOT be construed as definitive or binding medical
advice and is NOT intended to diagnose, prescribe, nor endorse any
brand of products or services. Always seek the advice of your physician
or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new weight loss or exercise regimen or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
|