You need to consume omega 3 for the health benefits it has to provide for your body. They form a component of the cell membrane of our bodies. They help the body to produce signaling molecules called eicosanoids. Omega 3 fatty acids are good for the immunity of our body, pulmonary, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems. Omega 3 acids are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA). The foods that are rich in omega contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), precursor alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
If You Do Not Have Omega Then It Can Result in Deficiency
Below are Some Symptoms that you have a Deficiency
- Skin Irritation and Dryness
Your skin may be the first one to give you an indication if your body is lacking omega 3. Your skin may just turn to be highly sensitive, or dry. You may even see an increase in acne, but that is only in some people.
If you are consuming Omega 3 then it will improve the barriers of your skin resulting in less loss of moisture. Also, your skin will remain protected from irritants that can lead to dryness.
There was a study done for about 20 weeks that pointed out omega 3 rich hemp seed oil given to people with atopic dermatitis more commonly known as eczema, showed signs of reduced dryness and itchiness. Eczema is a condition that causes dry or irritated skin.
- Depression
The Omega 3 fats form components of the brain and are popular for their neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. Omega 3 can even help treat neurodegenerative diseases and some disorders. Brain disorders like Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and bipolar disease.
Studies direct a correlation between being low omega 3 in the body and higher chances of depression.
An analysis was done on 26 studies with 2,160 subjects and it was found that those who took omega 3 supplements had positive effects on depression symptoms. A supplement of Omega 3 that has around 60% EPA with a dosage of 1 gram per day was found helpful.
There was a study done on animals that showed that lack of appropriate amount of Omega fats can cause changes in neuronal pathways of the brain which can cause depression.
- Dry Eyes
The Omega 3 fats even have a role to play in eye health as it maintains eye moisture and tears production. This is the reason that many physicians recommend omega 3 to their patients to maintain eye health. It helps people get free from dry eye syndrome. This syndrome causes discomfort to the eye and even can cause vision problems.
In a study, there were 64 adults who had dry eye issue. Two groups were formed. One group took 180 mg of EPA and 120 mg of DHA capsules per day. Whereas, the other group took placebo. After 30 days it was found that those who took omega 3 supplements saw less tear evaporation and improved dry eye symptoms with better tear production.
- Joint Pain and Stiffness
As the age factor kicks in human beings the joint pain and stiffness in the body tends to become a common sight. This may relate to a condition called osteoarthritis. In this condition the cartilage that covers the bones tends to break down. Or it may be related to another condition called rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Some studies say consumption of omega 3 supplements can reduce joint pain and increase the grip strength. PUFAs may also help with osteoarthritis.
So if you have recently inhibited joint pain then it means that the omega 3 in your body has become less. So adding some supplements to your diet may help.
- Hair Changes
Omega 3 can even help you better your hair. The change in the texture of the hair and it's density are some changes that regular consumption of omega 3 can show.
If you see that your hair is thinning or becoming dry or if your hair loss has increased then taking omega 3 supplement may be the solution.
Here's how you can Know That You Have a Deficiency of Omega
The healthcare providers do not usually diagnose that the body is lacking Omega 3. Moreover, there is no standard test available to check the deficiency. But there are some ways to diagnose it.
Taking the blood samples and studying the levels of Omega 3s in the blood fat or the blood plasma.
Another indirect way is by analyzing the fatty acid composition of red blood cells. By this method you can also look at the long-term dietary intake of fats of several previous years that leads to overall omega 3 intakes.
Thirdly, the risk for you can be higher if you are off the seafood and fish.
