Omega-3 fatty acids: how they work and what they are important for

They are found in fatty fish such as sardines, herring, salmon and mackerel, as well as in cooking oils, nuts and almonds. However, the human body cannot utilize plant-based omega-3 fatty acids as well, which is why vegetarians and vegans in particular sometimes suffer from a deficiency.

New study on fish oil capsules

Many people take fish oil capsules containing omega-3 acids to compensate for a deficiency or to prevent heart attacks and cancer. Now an English study by Oxford University has shown that these fish oil omega-3 capsules are largely useless. The consumer advice center also writes on its website that fish oil capsules do not prevent heart attacks or strokes.

Contradictory studies

It is complicated: Individual studies have shown, for example, that an omega-3 yogurt drink slows down the decline in memory performance in Alzheimer's disease. And a large American study found that people with high omega-3 levels in their blood have a reduced risk of developing arteriosclerosis. It has also been proven that omega acids are important for babies so that the brain and eyesight can develop properly.

Conclusion

You should make sure that you have a sufficient intake of these essential fatty acids in your diet. So eat a handful of nuts every now and then, add rapeseed or linseed oil to your salad and sometimes bring fresh fish to the table. If you take this to heart, you won't need any additional omega-3 fatty acids, say medical scientists.

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