Omega-3 fatty acids are sometimes called omega-3 oils are an essential component of the diet. They offer so many benefits for the brain as well as the body and there is already plenty of data to confirm these benefits. During this COVID-19 pandemic, a large number of people have reported low levels of intake of omega-3 mainly fearing to contract the virus as it was initially thought that coronavirus was transmitted through seafood, which is one of the biggest sources of omega-3 fatty acid. This suspicion decreased the amount of seafood usage, eventually leading to omega-3 fatty deficiency in many people. But is seafood the only source for omega-3 fatty acid? How to get over this deficiency.
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Health experts have suggested watching out for omega-3 deficiency as it is essential for eicosanoids (a type of signaling molecule) which play a direct role in immunity. This immunity is much needed right now when the whole world is struggling through a pandemic.
An omega-3 deficiency shows that the body doesn’t have the sufficient amount which it needs to maintain its functions. However, many people won’t know that they are having a deficiency unless a disease hits them. Here are five ways to evaluate the omega-3 fatty acid levels.
Dryness of skin and frequent irritations
A person with omega-3 deficiency usually experiences skin sensitivity dryness, acne, or other skin problems much more than other people. Intake of omega-3 is linked with making improvements in the skin barrier which saves the moisture level and doesn’t allow the irritants to hit the skin. Adding it to the diet reduces inflammation, redness, acne, and discoloration of the skin, making it healthy and beautiful.
Stress, depression, and anxiety
Not many people know but omega-3 deficiency can cause stress. As it is a neuroprotective agent that works on inflammation and reduces it, there are chances that in absence of omega-3 the body will go into stress. Taking an omega-3 supplement every day improves cognition, memory and saves from age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Dryness in eyes
Omega-3 deficiency also affects eyes and leaves them dry and at a high risk of tears. The treatment for ‘Dry eyes’, which is an eye disease also includes omega-3 supplements to speed up the recovery. Noticing dryness in the eyes can be prevented by taking an omega-3 fat supplement every day.
Pain in joints
Most older people experience joint stiffness, inflammation, and pain which often leads to osteoarthritis. There are so many studies that suggest that taking care of omega-3 levels can save from osteoarthritis especially in people over the age of 50.
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Hair fall, dryness, and breakage
Just like skin, omega-3 deficiency also causes certain hair changes. If the body is low on omega-3 fatty acids, the hair may change texture, integrity, shine, and density. This effect is more common among women. Thinning of hair and brittleness can be avoided by taking one omega-3 capsule every day.
The best way to fulfill this deficiency is by dietary improvements but a person is suspicious or doesn’t have access to omega-3 rich food, for any reason, he can use the supplement form of it. All seafood especially fatty fish is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acid while there are some plant sources too which can provide it.
Most omega-3 fatty acids are made from fish, algal, or krill. Based on your dietary preferences (vegan, vegetarian, non-vegetarian) you can choose any supplement of your choice and start taking it daily. Those who aren’t sure about taking the supplement should contact the nearest healthcare provider and get help.
