The Hidden Epidemic
We have a hidden epidemic affecting every man, woman and child in our country. Fewer than 100 years ago, we as a country, had a balance of essential fatty acids in the ratio of approximately 2:1 to 4:1. Now the opposite is true as we are at a very distorted ratio of 12:1 to 50:1 of Omega-6s to Omega-3s. The problem we face is the shift in ratios. How did this happen and why is it so critical? Differences in our modern diets, compared with what they once were when we were hunter gatherers, has caused this epidemic.
We currently consume high levels of Omega-6s, especially processed Omega-6s in vegetable oils, (especially soybean oil). They are cheap and added to almost everything we eat per / person / per year on average, 24 lbs. of soybean oil or nearly 7% of all calories consumed, and all oils, combined, make up 20% of daily calories. Omega-6s are pro-inflammatory and Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory, yet like all other bio-chemical balances in the body, both are needed.
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) considered to be Omega-3s, are most commonly found in such foods as nuts, seeds and other plant foods. However, conversion to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is inefficient in humans especially as we age. ALA is mostly stored and used for energy, like other fats. ALA, EPA and DHA are deemed essential fatty acids because they’re necessary for health but cannot be made by your body; therefore, they must be consumed in our diet. They are mainly found in seafood, including fatty fish, meat and dairy from grass-fed animals, and omega-3-enriched or pastured eggs.
The need for Omega-3s in infants and developing children is irrefutable. How many children are consuming these foods? Early childhood deficiency of Omega 3s is associated with problems later in life such as learning disabilities, ADHD, ADD, behavioral issues, hostility and aggressiveness. Adults also require Omega-3s for optimal health especially in our later years. Omega-3s may improve risk factors for heart disease, fight age-related mental decline and Alzheimer’s disease, improve sleep and fight inflammation just to name a few.
We now have a simple, inexpensive, take home test kit that can give us what is called the Omega 3 index. The Omega 3 index test is considered to be the new cholesterol test, (contact us for cited paper). This information pinpoints your blood levels of Omega-3s. Then by using an Omega 3 index calculator, we can tell you precisely how much supplementation it will take to get your levels to optimal.
We have done all the research so that you will benefit from this test. Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for optimal health. Consider calling us to have your levels tested. You will be glad you did.
