AIM AIMega™ details

AIM AIMega™ is an organic seed oil blend that delivers an important source of healthful and essential omega-3, -6 and-9 fatty acids.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs)

Just like other essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals obtained through the diet, dietary sources of essential fatty acids (EFAs) are absolutely necessary for optimal health and well-being. EFAs (essential fatty acids) are the main structural component of every cell, and every cell requires them for healthy cell growth and division. EFAs keep the membranes of our cells fluid, and allow entry of important nutrients into the cells, as well as the removal of toxins (cellular waste).

Additionally, certain EFAs are metabolized into longer-chain fatty acids which are, in turn, converted to hormone-like compounds known as eicosanoids, including a group of mediators called prostaglandins.

Prostaglandins are the critical components that effect physiologic functions such as cell growth and division, platelet aggregation (blood clotting), inflammatory responses, vasoconstriction and vasodilation of blood vessels, blood pressure, and immune function. EFAs restore energy, help us digest our foods, transport nutrients throughout the cells, contribute toward healthy hormone balance, and help us to maintain healthy blood lipid levels.

Why are EFAs so important?

The inadequate intake of EFAs is one of the most widespread nutritional deficiencies in the modern diet.

EFAs cannot be made by the body and their availability is totally dependent upon dietary sources. The body’s immune system cannot be efficient without EFAs and the prostaglandins they produce. Without EFAs, continual and cumulative damage occurs to the cell membranes, which erodes our health, weakens our immunity, accelerates aging, and contributes toward disease.

Omega-3 fatty acids in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and the omega-6 fatty acids in the form of linoleic acid (LA) are critically important for good health. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids affect growth, vitality, and mental state. They are involved in converting food substances into usable energy, and play a role in cardiovascular health, as well as maintaining overall health and well-being for virtually every body system.

Consuming these fatty acids through the diet allows the body to make all the essential fats it needs to support healthy cellular and immune function. The omega-9 (oleic fatty acids) are monounsaturated and not essential to the diet because the body can make them from other fatty acids, although they are recommended for overall good health and to prevent disease.

Flax oil is a good source of omega-3 (ALA)

Flax seed oil is one of the best sources of omega-3 (ALA) essential fatty acids. ALA must be consumed through the diet as the body is unable to manufacture it. Flax oil typically contains double the amount of omega-3 (ALA) found in an equal quantity of fish oil. (Flax oil contains 50-55% ALA). Flax oil also contains omega-6 (LA) for good health.

Omega-3 fatty acids are important to promote cardiovascular health and immune system function, as well as kidney function, and hormone synthesis. ALA can help to decrease the risk of arrhythmias, heart attack, stroke, atherosclerosis, and blood clots; it helps modulate blood lipid levels, decrease high triglycerides; and helps decrease high blood pressure. Omega-3 fatty acids (ALA) can be useful in managing arthritis, as well as reducing inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, as well as eczema, lupus and fibromyalgia.

Strong evidence suggests that ALA has a protective effect on coronary heart disease. In the 10-year Nurses’ Health Study, the risk of heart attack was reduced by 45% in individuals consuming a high intake of ALA.

The Health Professionals Follow Up Study found a similar decrease in risk for men who increased their ALA intake by 1%. Similarly, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Family Heart Study found a decreased risk of up to 70% in women with high intakes of ALA (0.96 g ALA per day).

Strong scientific evidence also supports the use of ALA (omega-3) as a protective measure against certain types of cancer. In one study, it was found that women with high levels of ALA in their adipose breast tissue had a 60% lower risk of breast cancer than women with low levels of ALA. (Eur J Cancer 2000, 36: 335-340).

Additionally, a portion of ALA is metabolized by the body into the longer-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, and these fatty acids are well-known to support brain and cognitive function, and are important for good mental health, especially as we age.

Omega-6 and -9 included for a balanced ratio of good fats

When consuming good fats, we need to ensure that we are getting the right balance of omega-3 and omega-6. While there is a wide range of opinion about the optimal ratios of fat, virtually all experts agree that North Americans consume too much omega-6 (as well as omega-9) from hydrogenated oils and processed foods. In addition to flax oil, which is an excellent source of omega-3 (also includes omega-6), the AIMega™ blend includes olive oil, which is a good source of omega-6 and an excellent source of omega-9.

Omega-6 content from healthy sources, such as olive oil, is lacking in the average diet. Olive oil has been found to decrease blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart attack, decrease high lipids, and reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The AIMega™ formula also includes sunflower and sesame seed oil to further enhance the optimal ratio of good fats in the diet for omega-6 and -9.

Suggested Reading

1. Fleshner N, Bagnell PS, Lotz L, Venkateswaran V. Dietary fat and prostate cancer. U Urol 2004 Feb; 171: S19-24.
2. Davis BC, Kris-Etherton PM. Achieving optimal essential fatty acid status in vegetarians: current knowledge and practical implications. Am J Clin Nutr 2003; 78(3): 640S-646S.
3. Belluzzi A, Boschi S, Brignola C, Munarini A, Cariani C, Miglio F. Polyunsaturated fatty acids and inflammatory bowel disease. Am J Clin Nutr 2000; 71(suppl): 339S-342S.
4. Simopoulos AP. Essential fatty acids in health and chronic disease. Am J Clin Nutr 1999; 70(30 Suppl): 560S-569S.
   5. Simopoulos AP. Human requirement for n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Poult Sci 2000; 79(7): 961-970.

The complete Whole Body Nutrition line consists of AIM AIMega™, the AIM Garden Trio® — AIM BarleyLife®, AIM Just Carrots®, and AIM RediBeets®. Use these products for a solid foundation for your health.