Essential fatty acids are "good" fats that our bodies cannot produce on their own. These must be taken in through our diet. These are healing fats that can reduce Coronary Heart Disease. It has also been reported to reduce neck pain and pain from arthritic joints. The 2 truly essential fatty acids are Linolenic acid (Omega-3) and Linoleic acid (Omega-6), as these feed the mind as well as the body.

Common Myth

There is a common myth that all Omega-6 fatty acids are bad. This is not true, as our body needs the good Omega-6 known as GLA (gamma linolenic acid). Many factors in our modern life hinder the body from absorbing a sufficient amount of Omega-6, even though we might get plenty in our diet. Some of these factors include diabetes, stress, aging, and intake of saturated fats, trans fats, alcohol, and sugar. It can be helpful take a supplement that has a readily absorbed form of GLA.

Balancing

Researchers recommend 4 Omega-6 molecules to 1 Omega-3 molecule ration. It is important to keep a balanced intake of the two fatty acids as the use the enzymes in our metabolic pathway. That is, they will competitively inhibit each other.

We all know that too much of something is bad for you. And dietary intake of these essential fatty acids is no exception to the rule. Recent research has found that excessive intake of Omega-3 increases blood clot formation time, and excessive intake of Omega-6 increase the risk of Coronary Heart Disease.

Omega-3 and Autism

Few research studies have been conducted regarding Omega-3 and autism. But all so far have reported positive improvments in both Autistic children and adults. Some reported improvements in cognition, eye contact, and social interaction and sleep patterns.

Omega-3 and Depression

A study done in 1999 involved 30 patients, all with bipolar disorder. One half of the group was given fish oil and the other took olive oil (placebo). The active component in fish oil is Omega-3. The results saw the group taking fish oil stay in remission longer than those on the placebo.

Here is a fact to think about:

One in every three (and increasing) people in New Zealand suffers from mental disorders. There, consumption of seafood is 40 pounds compared to Japan, which consumes a whooping 150 pounds per annum.

Fantastic Sources

Flaxseeds (linseed)- a primary source of omega-3 but also contains Omega-6. Flaxseeds can be conveniently sprinkled onto cereal or added into your cooking.

Oily Fish - such as mackerel, salmon or tuna are all great sources of both Omega-3 and Omega-6

Most vegetable oils - excellent sources of Omega-6

The Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids are a natural and effective way to heal your body from inflammation, reduce cholesterol and the likelihood of developing Coronary Heart Disease. Apart from reducing several physical ailments, the fatty acids also improve psychological problems. It is easy to increase your intake of the essential fatty acids as they can be taken in plant oil for, capsules or through food.