The importance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids

The body can synthesize most of the fats it needs from the diet. However, two essential fatty acids cannot be synthesized in the body and must be obtained from food. These basic fats, found in plant foods, are used to build specialized fats called omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids ( also called Essential Fatty Acids or EFAs).

These EFAs are necessary for the following processes:

• Formation of healthy cell membranes

• Proper development and functioning of the brain and nervous system

• Proper thyroid and adrenal activity

• Hormone production

• Regulation of blood pressure, liver function, immune and inflammatory responses

• Regulation of blood clotting: Omega-6 FAs encourage blood clot formation, whereas Omega-3 oil reduces clotting. The ideal is to achieve a balance between omega-6 and omega-3 FAs

• Crucial for the transport and breakdown of cholesterol

• Support healthy skin and hair

Sources of Omega 3’s include flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, soybean and its products such as tofu and tempeh. Walnuts, and dark green veggies, such as kale, collards chard, parsley, and cereal grasses (wheat & barley grasses), are also good sources. This is because all green (chlorophyll-rich) foods contain Omega-3 FA in their chloroplasts.

Sources of Omega-6 fatty acids include nuts, seeds, grains, legumes, and dairy.

The body cannot produce EFAs, so we must get them from our food. However, our diets tend not to provide the right quantity or balance of essential fats required by the body.

Most of the Omega Oils we obtain from our diets are damaged by food processing or by exposure to heat, light or oxygen, all of which degrade the nutritional value of Omega 3 and 6.

This is why we recommend Ultimate Oil Blend which provides a premium natural source of unprocessed, undamaged Omega 3 and 6 in a ratio that supports optimum health.

As Ultimate Oil Blend is made entirely from plant sources (no fish) it has a mild nutty taste and aroma and mixes very easily with most foods. Simply mix 3-4 dessertspoons a day with your meals.

Here are some suggestions how to use it:
• Pour over hot food once cooked (soups, mashed or baked potato, stews, Bolognese and more)
• Mix with Balsamic vinegar and use as a delicious salad dressing
• Blend in with a fruit smoothie (try our quick recipe below)

1 full avocado

Half cup of frozen berries

250ml rice/almond/coconut milk

1 tblsp of Udo's Oil

Blend altogether and enjoy

Healthy Living carries a variety of high quality essential fatty acids both in liquid form and in capsules. We also carry a huge selection of whole food products rich in Essential Fatty Acids. Come and visit our shop and find a great option for yourself or buy Udo's Oil below....