The benefits of flaxseed oil and essential fatty acidsWith good reason, North Americans today are concerned about obesity and weight control, which is often linked to increased risk for cardiovascular disease and adult onset diabetes. We’ve heard so much about maintaining a low-fat diet but difficult decisions face us daily.
Fats have gotten a bad reputation. The truth is that we not only like the taste of fat, but humans need certain types of dietary fat. EFAs (essentials fatty acids) are the main structural component of every cell membrane, and every cell requires them for healthy cell growth and division. EFAs restore energy, help us digest our foods, transport nutrients throughout the cells, and contribute toward healthy hormone balance. Our challenge is to discern the difference between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ fats. Know your fats!According to the Mayo Clinic, saturated fats that come from animal products such as red meat, poultry, and whole milk, as well as tropical oils, may be considered ‘bad’ fats. These saturated fats can increase your blood cholesterol levels and put you at risk for coronary artery disease. If you’ve ever looked at the waxy, greasy pool of fat that remains after cooking red meat, it’s easy to see and imagine the type of damage that solid (saturated) fats can do to the human body. Along with saturated fat, trans fat may raise your blood cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease. Trans fat comes from hydrogenated vegetable oils, which are oils that are manufactured through a process called hydrogenation. These fats are commonly found in processed foods like cakes, cookies and crackers—as well as fried foods such as doughnuts and the ever familiar french fries. Oh, how we try to avoid them! Other vegetable oils, such as flaxseed, safflower, corn, sunflower, soy and cottonseed oils are considered polyunsaturated fats. These types of fat usually remain liquid at room temperature and can be healthy in helping to lower blood cholesterol levels. In this group, one type of polyunsaturated fat—called ‘omega-3 fatty acids’—may be especially beneficial to good health. Flaxseed is a good source of omega-3s. “Omega-3 fat appears to decrease your risk of heart attack, protect against irregular heartbeats and lower blood pressure levels. It may even protect against some cancers,” states the Mayo Clinic.1 We’ve known for some time now about the rich source of omega-3 fatty acids found in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring. However, excessive fish consumption is a concern for many today, especially if you live near polluted waters where the fish may be toxic with mercury. In recent years, increasing interest and research of flaxseeds has shown that the essential oil found in flaxseeds is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Finally, our last form of fat is known as monounsaturated fat, which is found in olive and canola oils, as well as avocados and most nuts. Along with polyunsaturated fats, monounsaturated fats are also thought to contribute toward heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the fatty deposits that may develop in the arteries. Perhaps this is the reason that many popular restaurants today are now serving olive oil as a topping for bread instead of hydrogenated margarine. Why are omega fatty acids so important?“Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are incorporated into the membranes of our body cells to keep them fluid. As a result, they act as ‘gate-keepers’ to allow the entry into cells of important nutrients as well as the removal of toxins. More importantly, EFAs are converted to hormone like substances known as eicosanoids that effect physiological functions such as cell growth and division, platelet aggregation (blood clotting), inflammatory responses, hemorrhage, vasoconstriction and vasodilation of blood vessels, blood pressure, and immune function. The activity of the eicosanoids impacts clinical conditions involved in cardiovascular health, inflammatory disorders, immunity, and certain cancers.”2 Although still being studied, research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids:3 Decrease risk of sudden death and arrhythmia
Increasing the n-3 fatty acids through flaxseed supplementation has shown anti-inflammatory properties4; can protect the immune system and lower the incidence of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases5; and balance glucose levels. Flaxseed oil containing alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) has also been studied for use inhibiting the growth of cancerous tumors of the breast, colon, and pancreas.6 Flaxseed oil: the ‘new’ wonder of our modern ageSometimes referred to as the new wonder of the modern age, the health benefits of the flaxseed are enormous. Flaxseed oil is typically low in saturated fat (9%), moderate in monounsaturated fat (18%), and high in polyunsaturated ‘good’ fats (73%). A 10 g serving of flaxseed oil delivers an average of 5 g of alpha linolenic acid (ALA).7 Food processing has depleted much of the ALA and omega-3 content from our modern foods—so much so, that experts recommend supplementation since many North Americans are seriously deficient in omega-3 content. We may have an abundance of omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids derived from unhealthy sources (hydrogenated vegetable oils). This creates an imbalance of essential fats and may impair healthy cell functioning. The AIMega formula, with omega-6 and 9 from healthy sources can help to provide better balance of EFAs. AIMega™ delivers a balance of EFAsAIMega™ is an organic seed oil blend that delivers healthful and essential omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil, plus omega-6 and omega-9 from healthy sources (sesame seed oil, olive oil, and sunflower seed oil). With AIMega™, you’ll receive a complete blend of EFAs—with a balanced ratio of omega-3, 6, and 9. AIMega™ is especially helpful for those who seek to restore energy, maintain healthy triglyceride levels, maintain healthy glucose levels, and improve overall immune system and cardiovascular health. As an organic seed oil blend, AIMega™ provides an alternative to fish oil supplements. Each soft gel capsule is enhanced with rosemary extract and medium chain triglycerides for additional health benefit. Look for AIMega™ coming soon!
|
