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Myth #4: Fish is the best source of omega-3 fats
Omega-3 fats are credited with a large number of health benefits including improved mental function in elderly people, treating rheumatoid arthritis and depression as well as protecting you from heart disease.
Two important omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, are only available from fish and marine-based supplements. ALA on the other hand is found in walnuts, soybeans, canola oil, and flaxseed. All three types of omega-3 fats are needed for optimum health.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in plants offer different benefits than those found in fish. Without ALA, your skin would be scaly and you would have difficulty healing wounds and growing hair. Research has shown it can also decrease the risk of heart disease caused by the narrowing or hardening of arteries causing poor blood flow.
DHA and EPA are recommended by the American Heart Association because they reduce the level of triglycerides in blood resulting in a decrease in risk of cardiovascular disease.
"Based on the evidence we have at this point, I recommend that people include all omega-3 fatty acids in their diets," says Kris-Etherton.
Bottom Line: Both fish and plant-based omega-3 sources in your diet are needed for optimum health.
Issues: Omega-3 supplements, EPA and DHA, may cause excess bleeding in people taking anticoagulant drugs due to the fact it thins the blood. Oils and nuts are really good source of ALA but are also very high in calories so consumption should be limited.
Sports nutrition has become an ever more important part of the training cycle of youth athletes. For more information on sports nutrition, training and motivation, visit our sites:
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