Introduction
Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of organic substances that perform a variety of functions in the human body and are necessary for the natural course of reactions and processes. A deficiency increases the risk of various diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids are so-called essential substances, which means that the body cannot produce them itself, or only to a limited extent.
They must therefore be supplied with food. With a balanced diet, the requirement can usually be covered. If this is not possible due to a restricted, e.g. vegan diet, the intake of a dietary supplement containing omega-3 fatty acids can be considered after medical advice.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for every human being, whether newborn, child or adult. However, only very small amounts are needed daily to maintain normal bodily functions. With a balanced diet, which occasionally includes sea fish on the menu, the natural intake is usually sufficient.
Even with vegetarian and vegan diets, the consumption of healthy fats such as linseed or rapeseed oil can easily cover the requirement with natural foods. Competitive athletes and pregnant women have a higher need for omega-3 fatty acids. If a sufficient supply via food is not ensured, the intake of a dietary supplement, for example based on fish oil, can be considered.
Even if these are freely available, the use of such a product should only be done on the advice of a doctor. The possible effects of omega-3 fatty acids are often advertised with very exaggerated and reinforced statements. Therefore, not every person suffering from a disease of the heart, joints or other organs needs a dietary supplement of omega-3 fatty acids right away. In some cases, however, it is useful, so that the family doctor should be consulted on the subject if necessary.
What do you need Omega 3 fatty acids for?
Omega-3 fatty acids perform a wide variety of functions in the body and are indispensable for humans. Among other things, they are an important component of cell membranes, which give all body cells their shape and have an important function in signal transmission. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids are the starting substance for the production of various tissue hormones, which play an important role in the control of the body’s own defense system, for example. Ultimately, these nutrients are needed for good blood flow properties, protection against excessive blood clotting and for positively influencing the blood lipid level.
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