Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats required for optimal health, and they exist in three specific types: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The key bioactive forms are EPA and DHA, so we need them in higher amounts.

ALA exists only in plants, while DHA and EPA are found in fatty fish and seafood like sardines, mackerel, anchovies, salmon, herring, and tuna. The body does convert some ALA into EPA and DHA, for those who do not consume fish or seafood. Good food sources of ALAs include chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed, soybean, canola oil, and some leafy greens.

Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acid

There is scientific support for the numerous health advantages of omega-3s, highlighting the importance of consuming foods rich in these nutrients or taking a daily supplement. Nonetheless, "intakes in the U.S. are abysmally low," according to Ann Skulas-Ray, assistant professor of nutrition at the University of Arizona in Tucson.

These are some of the most notable benefits of omega-3s:

Could Support Heart Health

Omega-3s are particularly known for their ability to support heart health on multiple levels, including helping to lower blood pressure and triglycerides, elevate good HDL cholesterol, and potentially reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart arrhythmias. Studies show the benefits of EPA and DHA in particular in this regard.

These nutrients have potent anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate swelling in the cardiovascular system. In addition, they may prevent the formation of potentially harmful blood clots by preventing platelets from binding together, improving circulation and vasodilation.

While studies vary in their results, most findings support the heart health benefits of omega-3s. A 2021 research review in eClinical Medicine by Safi U. Khan, et al concluded that omega-3s may improve cardiovascular outcomes and reduce mortality, and the effect was most prominent with EPAs.

The results were confirmed in a 2022 review in Current Atherosclerosis Reports by Samuel C. R. Sherratt, et al, which found that omega-3s may improve platelet function, lower inflammation, decrease cholesterol, and help prevent endothelial dysfunction.

Enhances Cognitive Function

Omega 3 fatty acids play an essential role in cognitive function starting before birth, as they are important building blocks in developing the brain and nervous system of the growing fetus.

This makes it especially important for women to consume them while pregnant and breastfeeding. In addition, infants and children require optimal levels to form new cells and strengthen neural connections.

While ALA and EPA are central to brain function, DHA also supports the synthesis of key neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin to help enhance cognitive functions like memory, motivation, and mood.

A research review in Cureus by Ibrahim M Dighriri, et al found a connection between the consumption of omega-3s and improvements in memory, learning, cognitive well-being, and cerebral blood flow.

Research indicates that regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids could slow the progress of cognitive decline and lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

May Improve Mental Health

Omega 3 fatty acids help boost levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which play a significant role in mood and could help alleviate depression. In addition, some research indicates that omega-3s may increase GABA levels to help lower stress and anxiety.

A research review published in Translational Psychiatry by Yuhua Liao, et al found support for the benefits of omega-3s, and in particular EPAs, in reducing depression symptoms. In addition, a review in JAMA Network by Kuan-Pin Su, et al found an association between supplementation with omega-3s and a reduction in anxiety severity.

ALSO READ - How Omega-3 Fatty Acids Support Mental Health

Supports Bone & Joint Health

Omega-3 fatty acids help strengthen the bones by improving calcium absorption, and research supports the potential benefits of EPA and DHA in enhancing bone mineral density, reducing fracture risk, and aiding in bone preservation. As bones support the joints and keep them stable, this could also enhance their health and function.

Multiple studies highlight the potential advantages of omega-3 fatty acids in reducing pain and inflammation in the joints and protecting against cartilage loss. A review of studies published in Nutrients by Dean M. Cordingley and Stephen M. Cornish found clinical support for the benefits of omega-3s in the management of osteoarthritis.

Skin Benefits

Omega-3s have multiple benefits for skin health, most notably decreasing inflammation and redness and helping to heal skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and acne. They may also slow oil production to reduce the risk of breakouts, boost hydration, alleviate dryness, and decrease signs of photoaging.

May Reduce Inflammation

Omega 3 fatty acids have powerful anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce swelling bodywide, supporting the health of multiple organs like the heart, brain, liver, pancreas, digestive tract, and kidneys. In addition, their ability to lower inflammation may make them effective in the management of autoimmune conditions.

The anti-inflammatory benefits of omega-3s also help ease muscle and joint pain, improve function, and speed up recovery after exercise.

Eye Health

Omega-3s support ocular health by improving blood flow to the eyes, enhancing tear production, and maintaining retinal function. DHA exists naturally in the retina, and some research indicates that it plays a role in vision.

According to a research review in Frontiers in Nutrition by Yan Lee, et al, studies support the potential benefits of optimal omega-3 levels in lowering the risk of developing age-related conditions like macular degeneration and glaucoma.

In addition, there is some evidence indicating that omega-3s could help alleviate dry eye syndrome and eliminate floaters.

Dr. Janice Fan

Dr. Janice Fan, Doctor of Optometry, emphasizes the potential benefits of omega-3 supplementation, particularly for those with existing eye conditions. She states, For people with existing eye conditions, like dry eye syndrome or age-related macular degeneration, even higher doses might be beneficial. I've seen some patients respond well to doses of 2000-3000 mg per day. But, everyone's needs are different, and these higher doses should only be taken under the guidance of an eye doctor or healthcare provider.

READ MORE - How Omega-3's Can Help Treat Dry Eye?

Diabetes Management

Omega-3 fatty acids may offer anti-diabetes benefits, especially EPA and DHA from marine sources. Evidence suggests that they may improve insulin resistance and reduce diabetes-related inflammation that can exacerbate the condition. In addition, these nutrients have support for their ability to lower triglycerides, decrease fasting glucose levels, and improve other parameters of metabolic syndrome.

A research review in Current Nutrition Reports by Sümeyra Şahin Bayram and Gül Kızıltan found support for the role of omega-3 fatty acids in managing blood sugar and lipid levels in people with type 2 diabetes.