Tutorial 3.5 Benefits of Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients with numerous health benefits:

1. Supports Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids have been extensively studied for their ability to maintain heart health and protect against heart disease. They can lower blood pressure, reduce levels of fats called triglycerides in the blood, and lower the risk of irregular heartbeats.

2. Promotes Brain Health: Omega-3s are crucial for brain function. Research suggests that people with certain mental health conditions have lower omega-3 blood levels, and having more omega-3s may help prevent the onset or improve the symptoms of some mental health conditions like depression.

3. Enhances Eye Health: An omega-3 fatty acid called DHA is a major structural component of your eyes' retinas. It may help prevent macular degeneration, which can cause vision impairment and blindness.

4. Eases Inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help treat conditions associated with chronic inflammation.

5. Supports Prenatal Growth and Development: Omega-3s are crucial for brain growth and development in infants. Getting enough omega-3s during pregnancy is associated with numerous benefits for your child, including improved cognitive development, better communication and social skills, fewer behavioral problems, and decreased risk of developmental delay.

6. Supports Joint Health: Omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain joint health.

Remember, it's important to get enough omega-3s because they are often replaced with other fats in the Western diet, leading to potential health issues.

Quiz

3.19 Solve these puzzles to identify the body parts that benefit from Omega 3 Oils. 

    H _______________

    B _______________

    E _______________

    J _______________

3.20 Reverse this word to solve the puzzle. Another benefit of Omega 3 Oils includes: 

[ i t n a - y r o t a m m a l f n i ] properties.
 
3.21 Q&A. List the 4 benefits of Omega-3s for prenatal growth and development.

Extended Exercise

Complete these 2 sentences: 

(a) Omega-3 Fatty Acids ... 

(b) They can lower ...

Some Sources of Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Here are some foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids:

1. Fish: Fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, and sardines are excellent sources of Omega-3.
2. Shellfish: Oysters are rich in Omega-3. 
   
   
   
3. Seeds and Nuts: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are high in Omega-3.
4. Vegetable Oils: Canola oil is a good source of Omega-3.
5. Beans and Legumes: Soybeans, peas, and chickpeas are sources of Omega-3, although they are not as rich in this nutrient as seeds or oilseeds.
6. Leafy Greens: Dark green leaves are another source of Omega-3.
7. Tofu: Tofu is a plant-based food that is high in Omega-3.
8. Avocados: Avocados are a good source of Omega-3.

Remember, it's important to have a balanced diet to ensure you're getting enough Omega-3 fatty acids. If you're considering supplements, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider.

Extended Exercise

Price Check. Visit the supermarket and find out the relative prices for all the above named sources of foods high in Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Complete the list in order of most expensive to least expensive.

Rank           Item              Cost per Qty

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Chapter Modules

3.1 Recommended Daily Intake for Fatty Foods

3.2 Reducing Fat in the Diet
3.3 Healthy Fats
3.4 Animal vs Plant-based Fats
3.5 Benefits of Omega 3 Fatty Acids

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