by Shelly Mcrae

Created on: December 13, 2010   Last Updated: May 07, 2012

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to good health. These fats provide energy for cellular growth and reproduction, cognitive functions and organ function. Omega-3 is considered a "good fat" but the human body is unable to produce it on its own. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include fish, seeds and nuts, and green vegetables. A diet high in omega-3 provides a number of health benefits.

Cholesterol control
Omega-3 fatty acids are instrumental in controlling bad cholesterol levels as well as reducing triglycerides levels in the blood. Triglycerides are fats that accumulate in the blood and contribute to heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids aid the circulatory system in "washing" away bad fats and sending them to the liver for disposal as waste. Omega-3 fats also slow the production and accumulation of fats, thereby reducing both bad cholesterol and triglycerides levels.

Omega-3 fats also improve HDL levels, HDL being good cholesterol. When bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels are lowered, and good cholesterol is raised, the risk for heart disease is reduced.

Brain function
Omega-3 fatty acids build cellular membrane in the brain; without fatty acids brain cell production slows and cognitive function is impaired. Memory, reasoning and higher learning operations -such as mathematical calculations- are negatively affected when the body lacks omega-3 and other essential fatty acids.

A daily intake of omega-3 promotes healthy cellular functioning within the brain. The brain, as an organ, is better able to process input both physiologically and from external sources.

An example of this is the effect increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids has on the symptoms exhibited in those with attention deficit disorder (ADD). Because cellular function is improved, communications between cells is also improved. This increases the ability to concentrate on tasks, particularly those of an academic nature. The more evident symptom of ADD, the inability to concentrate for extended periods of time, is controlled through the use of omega-3 supplements, according to a study out of Oxford University, United Kingdom.

Symptom control and relief
For those suffering from arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce and control the inflammation associated with these conditions. Omega-3 fatty acids encourage the production of anti-inflammatory chemicals within the body, resulting in the reduction of inflammation. When the inflammation is reduced, the pain and symptoms caused by these conditions are controlled.

Certain skin ailments, such as psoriasis, eczema and photo dermatitis, a condition in which the skin is oversensitive to sunlight, may also be relieved by introducing omega-3 into the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids "up the oil content" within the skin, creating within the skin's layers a natural deterrent to certain skin disease.

General health
Though omega-3 fatty acids are often associated with specific health concerns, these fats contribute to the overall health of the human body as well. Omega-3 fats boost the immune system and aid in reducing cancer-causing free radical cells, making the body better able to fight infection and disease.

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