One may wonder if Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial only for kids and not adults! Well, its valid contemplation and yes, Omega-3 has multiple benefits for adults also. The essential fatty acids have two main components:- EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are found in certain fishes. These are very important in improving many aspects of one’s mental and physical health. Hence, there a truck load of benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids for kids and adults alike. Let’s explore some of the key benefits:
Omega-3 benefits:
Omega-3 benefits for Children :
- Improved Cognitive Behaviour: Essential fatty acids like EPA and DHA are pivotal for brain development and overall growth of child’s cognition. Studies suggest that kids that consume these fatty acids regularly are fast learners and have a great discernment power.
- Improves ADHD results: Many ADHD children’s parents have reported reduction in impulsive, restless and hyperactive behavior in their child. Further, these kids showed improvement in memory, attention span and learning ability.
- Sleep patterns are improved: Studies show that kids under the age of 18years experienced anxiety free sleep on the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Visual acuity: DHA in Omega-3 is known to protect vision. With over exposure of digital medium the kids’ eye sight is weakening faster than before. So sharpen your children’s eyesight with this simple fatty acid.
- Reduces Asthma in Children: Over the years it is seen that kids consuming omega-3 fatty acids are protected from asthma and/or their symptoms are reduced drastically. These fatty acids help in reducing inflammation in the lungs.
Omega-3 benefits for Adults:
- Healthy heart: Studies indicate that Omega-3 fatty acids improve risk factors for heart diseases. It is of common knowledge that seafood eaters have a lower risk of any heart-related troubles. This was traced to the consumption of these essential fatty acids.
As Omega-3 fatty acids help in the reduction of triglycerides, reduces blood pressure, raises good cholesterol, smoothens the arteries and improves inflammation response- it collectively results in a heart that functions easily and smoothly.
- Improves joint pain: As we know, the cases of osteoporosis and arthritis are increasing day by day across age groups. Studies suggest that Omega-3 fatty acids improve bone strength by increasing the calcium levels in the bones. These fatty acids also help in reducing joint pain and improves symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Helps in tackling depression and anxiety:
It is effective in reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Various studies are conducted worldwide, which show that those who regularly consume Omega-3 had fewer chances of depression and anxiety than others. According to a study, EPA can be a good anti-depressant drug.
- Beneficial in reducing blood sugar levels: Apart from improving the risk factors for heart diseases, Omega-3 fatty acids also lower blood sugar levels, increase good cholesterol in the body and reduce blood clots.
- Reduces Inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids reduces the production of molecules and substances which cause inflammation.
In addition to these specific benefits, Omega-3 fatty acids also help reducing asthma symptoms, fight age-related mental decline, can support in fighting autoimmune diseases, may help in preventing cancer, improve the symptoms of metabolic syndrome, etc. Overall, regular consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids can be a preventive measure for many health disorders.