Omega-3 fatty acids are poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) found in vegetable and animal kingdom. Alpha Linolenic acid (ALA), the parent fatty acid of Omega-3 family is an essential fatty acid (EFA). It is not synthesized by the body and must be supplemented through diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are found less in foods and flax seed oil and fish oil are two of the major sources. Flax seed oil is the world's richest source of Omega-3 fatty acids (mainly ALA) apart from certain types of fish like sardine. Omega-3 fatty acids have a significant role as dietary supplement for essential fatty acids generally. It is particularly beneficial to cardiac patients, pregnant and lactating women, infants, arthritic patients etc. EFAs perform two vital functions in the body. Firstly as part of the membrane barrier surrounding the cells and organelles, secondly involving the communication between cells, known as signaling. The role of Omega-3 in treating cardiovascular diseases is compelling. It helps to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory agents. It produces potential anti-thrombotic effect, provides membrane stabilization in cardiac tissue and also has anti-arrhythmic effects. Omega-3 also enables lowering of triglyceride, contributes to reduced pulse pressure and total vascular resistance. Omega-3 fatty acid has been found to be useful in pregnancy in prolonging gestation and the prevention of preterm labor. Omega-3 is of utmost importance for normal development of the brain, neural and retinal tissues in fetuses and newborns. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis have consistently shown modest clinical improvement with the use of EFA supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids help handle arthritis by reduction of tumor necrosis factor, interleukin levels and other pro-inflammatory agents.
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