FitMed Partners Offers Test To Determine Omega Levels Which Can Reduce Risk of Heart Disease

CHARLESTON, S.C. - Oct. 20, 2013 - PRLog -- Many people try to avoid fats.   While some fats are considered bad, there are some that are good for the body as well.

Omega-3 fatty acids tout benefits from reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke to reducing symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Found in flaxseed and other plant-based foods, cold-water fish, and nuts, Omega-3 fatty acids have even been shown to boost the immune system and help protect against an array of illnesses including Alzheimer’s disease.

By now, people are aware of diets that prescribe food rich in Omega-3’s, such as the Mediterranean diet’s fare of walnuts, fruits and vegetables, and fish. Even so, many people are still not getting their recommended daily amount of Omega-3s.

Two active ingredients of Omega-3 in fish are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Surprisingly, the fish does not create EPA and DHA itself. Instead, they are created by marine algae and consumed by the fish—so eating farm raised fish will not reap the same benefits of more expensive wild caught fish.

Improve Cognitive Function
There is a growing evidence base for Omega-3s in improving mood and restoring structural integrity to brain cells critical in performing cognitive functions.

Already well known for their ability to protect against heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, the Omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may be highly effective in preventing and managing depression and cognitive decline, according to a growing body of evidence.2-4

Prevent Strokes
Omega-3s also reduces the negative impact of another essential type of fatty acid known as Omega-6. Found in foods such as eggs, poultry, cereals, vegetable oils, baked goods, and margarine, Omega-6s are also considered essential. They support skin health, lower cholesterol, and help make our blood “sticky,” so it is able to clot. But when Omega-6s aren’t balanced with sufficient amounts of Omega-3s, problems such as clot formation can ensue, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. So for a healthy balance, about 4 parts Omega-3 to 1 part Omega-6 is ideal.

Protect Your Heart
According to the American Heart Association, those looking to protect their hearts should eat a variety of types of fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel) at least twice a week. Those with heart disease should get 1 gram of Omega-3 (containing both EPA and DHA) per day, preferably from fatty fish. Other sources of Omega-3 include canola oil, broccoli, cantaloupe, kidney beans, spinach, grape leaves, Chinese cabbage, cauliflower, and walnuts.

Supplementing
Whole food is more than 90% absorbed by the body, while the body only absorbs about 50% of a supplement. Therefore a diet high in Omega-3s is best. Supplements should be used only after good testing to determine the recommended amount needed for each individual.

A new test offered by FitMed Partners is the HS-Omega-3 Index Report. This test gives a comprehensive breakdown of the Omega-3 and Omega-6 levels in the body as well as monosaturated, saturated, and trans fatty acids. This information can be used to adjust a diet and/or supplement plan that will work best for each individual.    FitMed Partners, an age management practice led by Dr. Bright McConnell, III, offers this HS-Omega-3 Index Report, a supplement test and a nutritional assessment.  For more information, log onto www.fitmedpartners.com.