Healthy

Do You Get Enough Omega-3s?

The cell membrane protects all of your cells. The cell membrane protects and controls what enters and leaves your cells.

Omega-3 fatty acid helps the cell membrane to maintain its integrity and structure, which allows it to be an effective barrier against harmful substances. These fatty acids also help in the cell’s metabolism and communication. This helps to keep cells healthy and working properly.

Omega-3s also help to regulate inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of some diseases.

Omega-3s can be obtained from many sources. However, the best are nuts and fatty fish. You may develop symptoms if you don’t get enough omega-3s.

Below are some signs that you might need to increase the intake of essential fatty acid:

Dry Skin or Itchy Skin

Dry, itchy and inflamed, or dry skin are some of the symptoms of an Omega-3 deficiency. Omega-3s are necessary for your skin to maintain its elasticity and hydration.

Omega-3s are essential for your skin to regulate oil production and strengthen the natural barrier it has against external irritants. Your skin will become more susceptible to irritation and dryness without enough omega-3s. This can cause flaking, itching and redness. It may also lead to acne, psoriasis and eczema.

Mood Disorders and Brain Disorders

Low omega-3 levels are associated with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, and Alzheimer’s disease. Omega-3s are essential for brain development and mood regulation.

Omega-3s are essential for the production and utilization of serotonin, dopamine and other hormones that regulate mood. They also protect neurons against damage caused by free-radicals.

Those who lack omega-3 fatty acid can improve their mood by increasing their intake of whole foods and supplements. This will also slow down the age-related decline in cognitive function.

Fatigue

You may feel tired and unable to concentrate if you don’t get enough fatty acids.

Omega-3s convert glucose into energy and help form red blood cells that carry oxygen to tissues and muscles. Your cells will not be able produce enough energy for your body if you don’t have enough omega-3s. This can lead to fatigue.

They help regulate hormones that are associated with sleep. A deficiency may also lead to insomnia or other sleep disorders , which can further worsen fatigue.

Poor Circulation

Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and maintain blood vessel flexibility, which is essential for circulation. Deficiency in omega-3s can cause oxygenated blood to not reach your extremities. This results in cold and numb hands and feet.

Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms above. There may be a solution.

Some cases, the solution to this problem may be as easy as eating salmon one or two times a week or snacking on a regular basis on nuts and seeds. It’s best to speak with a doctor before beginning any new supplement regimen.