Happier Heart

Unsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 have long been known to lower cholesterol levels. Recent research also shows about 3 grams of omega-3 a day can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks.

Better Brain

Research conducted at UCLA found omega-3 fatty acids improve learning and memory and help combat depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia and dementia. UCLA Professor of Neurosurgery and Physiology Fernando Gomez-Pinilla analyzed more than 160 studies of foods' affect on the brain. His findings are published in the "Nature Reviews Neuroscience."

Younger Cells

Omega-3s keep cells healthier by decelerating their aging time. Findings published in the Jan. 20, 2010 issue of the "Journal of the American Medical Association" show 600 patients with coronary disease given omega-3 fatty acids over a 5-year-period had slowed cell aging.

Omega-3 Sources

Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, herring, trout and mackerel are the best source of omega-3. It's also found in walnuts, flax seed, hemp seed, soybeans and their oils. Oils and other supplements are beneficial, but the body best absorbs omega-3 from food.

Too Much Is Too Much

Exceeding the recommended dose of 3 grams of omega-3 daily can cause dangerous side effects, including bleeding and stroke.

Source:

Mayo Clinic on Omega-3

Journal of the American Medical Association

Omega-3 and the Brain