|  | Diet Nutrition | Nutrition

Omega-3 Oil Vs. Omega-6 Oil

Omega-3 oil and omega-6 oil are two types of essential fatty acids needed by the body for optimal functioning. Both are considered polyunsaturated fats, the healthiest type of fat in the diet.

  1. Foods With Omega-3 Oils

    • The best source of omega-3s is in fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, or fish-oil supplements. It can also be found in significant amounts in walnuts, flax, soybeans and canola oil.

    Foods with Omega-6 Oils

    • Omega-6 oils are found in nuts, seeds and many vegetable oils such as corn, safflower and soybean oil.

    Omega-3 Oils in the Body

    • In the body, omega-3 oils have been credited with helping lower the risk of heart disease and prevent inflammation, which helps reduce the impact of joint disease such as arthritis. Omega-3s are also necessary for the developing fetal brain, nervous system and eyes.

    Omega-6 Oils in the Body

    • Omega-6 oils help induce blood clotting, lower blood cholesterol, aid in developing healthy skin and assist with immune-system functioning.

    Balance

    • Many experts agree that for maximum health benefits, the oils should be balanced in the diet in a ratio of about 2:1 omega-6s to omega-3s. Because omega-6s are common in processed food, the typical ratio for Americans is usually around 40:1.

Nutrition - Related Articles