Omega 3 – A lifetime of good health
What is Omega-3?
These are groups of fatty acids characterised by the presence of double-bonds in the alpha carbon chains. The two important groups are the Omega- 3 and Omega-6, due to the location of the double- bonds in the molecule. They then constitute the polyunsaturated fatty acids (pufa)
Source
They are not synthesised and can only be found in natural diet. The common sources are oily fish like Tuna, Salmon, Mudfish, Catfish, fish oil supplements and some plants.
Pregnancy and child development
There is no doubt that the Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to health.
Their importance is related to their molecular structure which directly influences their cellular activities within the body. They have highly-specialised functions in neurones, especially in the brain and retina. In the last three months of pregnancy, the presence of Omega-3 in the brain development is very essential, due to its role in cell membranes development and activities, and the development and growth of new tissue. Encompassing the Omega-3
Other roles
EFAs (Essential Fatty Acids) play very important health roles in the body. They form the major components of the nerve cells and cellular membranes, apart from the provision of energy.
They have similar calorific value to other fats and oils but, unlike saturated fats, they have important health roles. They are also useful in the regulation of all biological functions, including those of the cardiovascular, reproductive, immune, respiratory, and the nervous systems.
In chronic illness, it has been shown that an increase in the Omega-3 fatty acids of marine origin can effect an improvement across a range of conditions, both physical and mental. Research is continually producing positive findings for these vital nutrients
Human brain
The human brain is unique within the animal world in that it forms a greater proportion of body weight than in other species. It is also unique in its composition. Of the solid (non-water) matter in the brain, 60 per cent is fat, or lipid, and of that, polyunsaturates form the biggest component.
There is a broad consensus that brain structure and function is affected by the dietary supply of Omega-3 (as found in oily fish and fish oil supplements), particularly in children.
DHA is an important constituent of the human brain, making up about 20 per cent of its dry weight. Foetal brain, eye and neural development require substantial amounts of DHA. EPA also helps the body to manufacture important substances called eicosanoids. These seem to have controlling effects on hormones and the immune system, both of which are known to affect the function of the brain.
Omega-3 intake is critical during the last three months of pregnancy and the first year of life, the major period of brain cell formation in humans. Numerous studies have shown the benefits resulting from raised maternal Omega-3 supply. These range from faster eyesight and physical development to improved IQ and learning capabilities.
Children’s intake is also linked to positive effects. Recent studies investigating Fish Oil Omega-3 indicate that Omega-3 supplementation for children has resulted in improved concentration and behaviour, especially in those with learning and behavioural difficulties as seen in early stages in school. Supplementation in adolescent years can also have marked effects on the brain.
Babies can also obtain DHA from breast milk after birth. Breastfeeding is, therefore, important in the first two years of life when the brain development is at its most rapid.
A healthy status is, therefore, achievable during some of the critical stages in life with the availability of the adequate supply of sufficient pufa since it promotes brain and vision development and protects against diseases.
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