|  | Diet Nutrition | Vitamins

Omega 3 & Immunity

Omega-3 is a fatty acid that is important to human health. It can be used to slow the effects of many types of diseases. Omega-3 can also be used to prevent illness and to improve general well-being.

  1. Sources

    • Omega-3 can be found in cold water fatty fish such as halibut, salmon and tuna. Algae, nuts and flax seeds are also rich sources of omega-3. Omega-3 can also be purchased over the counter in capsule or oil form.

    Immunity

    • Omega-3 boosts immunity by producing white blood cells that destroy dangerous bacteria. It also helps the body to not overreact to an infection.

    Autoimmune Diseases

    • Omega-3 has anti-inflammatory properties. This fatty acid can help slow down the effects of autoimmune diseases like arthritis and lupus by reducing joint pain and swelling.

    Heart Health

    • According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, clinical evidence shows that omega-3 can help to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke by raising the levels of good cholesterol, or HDL. The good cholesterol lowers the amount of fat in the blood.

    Diabetes

    • The Medical Center at the University of Maryland has also found that omega-3 can help people with diabetes. The fatty acids from fish oil can lower the amount of triglycerides (fat in the bloodstream). It also lowers the body's amount of apoproteins, which are markers for diabetes.

Vitamins - Related Articles