Doctors finally have the ability to assess for a crucial medical deficiency.
Stepping up your health game has never been easier, but did you know that shunning omega-3s is practically inviting cardiovascular disease? Here's why:
One key reason is that omega-3s are terrific for lowering blood pressure. They're also awesome at combating inflammation, plus they help manage other health issues like depression and cognitive impairment.
So, without enough of these essential fatty acids, you could be in serious trouble. Dr. Philip Britz-McKibbin, a professor of chemical biology at McMaster University in Ontario, put it simply: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for our body's cells and tissues, so what you eat, really does determine who you are when it comes to these vital nutrients.
But if omega-3s are so crucial for our wellbeing, then why aren't doctors checking our levels regularly? After all, the human body can't produce them. That's because the current method for testing omega-3 levels can be pretty complicated, requiring large blood samples and detailed lab work. Duly, most doctors don't routinely measure what's known as the Omega-3 Index (O3I).
However, scientists like Dr. Britz-McKibbin are working to change that. In a groundbreaking study, his team identified two specific biomarkers in the blood that can be used to quickly measure the O3I with less invasive tests.
"By directly measuring only two specific biomarkers in a blood sample, we can rapidly assess the O3I without time-consuming and costly sample workup protocols," says Dr. Britz-McKibbin.
Researchers also plan to develop a simple urine-based test that would eliminate the need for blood samples entirely. With these advancements, understanding our omega-3 levels and ensuring they're at healthy levels becomes achievable without any fuss.
In light of this, now's the perfect time to take charge of your own health. Most heart health guidelines focus on lowering cholesterol and saturated fats, but if you're eating the Standard American diet, you're probably falling short on omega-3s, leading to disrupted gut microbes, an inflamed immune system, and potential heart issues.
So, what can you do to remedy this? Load up on foods like salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, shrimp, walnuts, soybean, chia seeds, and flaxseed. Consider a daily supplement like krill oil, which is rich in DHA and EPA - two essential components of omega-3s.
Stay tuned for more developments in the field of omega-3 testing and become well-versed in the secrets of long-lived hearts. Cheers to your health!
[Hushed Up Natural Heart Cures and Common Misconceptions of Popular Heart Treatments! Click here for the guide.]
Sources:
- Omega watch: Researchers develop new blood test for measuring levels of critical omega-3 fatty acids - Science Daily
- Lipidomic studies reveal two specific circulating phosphatidylcholines as surrogate biomarkers of the omega-3 index - Journal of Lipid Research
- Omega-3 - Nutriterra
- Omega-3 Index - Grøntvedt Biotech
- embracing omega-3rich foods can significantly contribute to heart health
- the lack of omega-3s in the diet can lead to cardiovascular disease
- omega-3s play a crucial role in lowering blood pressure
- combating inflammation is one of the benefits of omega-3s
- omega-3s also help manage other health issues such as depression and cognitive impairment
- without enough omega-3s, serious health problems may arise
- omega-3s are essential for the body's cells and tissues
- what we eat determines our omega-3 levels significantly
- scientists are working towards making omega-3 testing more accessible
- Dr. Britz-McKibbin and his team identified two specific biomarkers in the blood for omega-3 testing
- these biomarkers can be used to quickly measure the Omega-3 Index (O3I) with less invasive tests
- researchers plan to develop a simple urine-based test for omega-3 levels
- understanding and maintaining healthy omega-3 levels can be achieved easily with these advancements
- focusing on lowering cholesterol and saturated fats in heart health guidelines may not be enough
- the Standard American diet often leads to a deficiency in omega-3s
- disrupted gut microbes and an inflamed immune system can result from a deficiency in omega-3s
- potential heart issues could arise from a deficiency in omega-3s
- salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, shrimp, walnuts, soybean, chia seeds, and flaxseed are rich in omega-3s
- krill oil is a daily supplement rich in DHA and EPA, essential components of omega-3s
- knowing the secrets of long-lived hearts involves understanding omega-3s
- staying informed about omega-3 testing is important for maintaining heart health
- global-cuisines often include omega-3 rich ingredients, adding variety to your diet
- sustainable-living practices can encourage the consumption of omega-3 rich foods like fish
- smartphones and other gadgets can help you find recipes rich in omega-3s
- social-media can provide information on the health benefits and sources of omega-3s
- celebrities and influencers can also promote the importance of omega-3s in their lifestyle
- finance management advice can help you afford omega-3 rich foods and supplements
- investing in real-estate or businesses that prioritize sustainable living can support your healthy lifestyle
- creating healthy recipes using global-cuisines and local ingredients will personally contribute to your omega-3 intake.