All cells throughout the human body are enveloped by a membrane composed primarily of essential fatty acids. Humans lack the enzymes to produce these, so we must get them from our diet and supplements. The typical Omega 6 fatty acid diet Americans consume consist of red meats, french fries and junk food instead of the fish, flax and nuts needed for good cell membrane health Experts estimate that 80 % of the population does not consume sufficient quantities of essential fatty acids. This lack of essential fatty acids set the stage for chronic disease processes.

Here are a few reasons why you should be concerned:

• Fatty acids build a better cell wall and build a better body. Fatty acids are also important for proper cell division, in that they help reduce out of control cell division (cancer).


• Supplementation promotes balanced body chemical production to make pain relieving compounds, helping to support joint health. In at least 11 double blind studies of RA patients, pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body were reduced almost 90% with essential fatty acid supplementation.


• Essential fatty acids support optimal cardiovascular functions; studies have shown that they reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis, fatal heart attacks, and strokes. Essential fatty acids also help restore good cholesterol levels, lower triglycerides, and may reduce arrhythmias. Studies also indicated moderate reductions in blood pressure.


• Supplementation supports healthy mood and overall brain and nervous functions associated with the fatty composition of nerve cell membranes and supports functions such as learning and memory. An impressive 25% of total brain fat is DHA. Fortunately, deficiencies of brain DHA can be reversed in just a few weeks.


• Studies indicate that lower levels of essential fatty acids in the patient's blood are associated with higher frequency of Alzheimer's and depression. Research has demonstrated a remarkable 50% reduction in depressive symptoms after supplementation.


• Essential fatty acids support glucose and insulin levels by improving cell membrane structure and hormone (insulin) receptor sites. One of my diabetic patients took a long-standing (6+ months) fasting blood sugar of 170 and dropped it to 140 overnight by taking 6 EPA-DHA capsules. Over the next 2 weeks, it reduced to and remained at a fasting glucose of 120. The long-term benefits of Essential Fatty Acids to the neurological and vascular systems of diabetics are far reaching.


• Supplementation supports healthy immune functioning and help fight against many auto immune and inflammatory disorders, including arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus, psoriasis, and eczema. Asthma symptom scores were reduced with supplementation, also.


• Essential Fatty Acids support optimal skin and retinal health. A recent study showed elevated ocular pressure, associated with glucose, was reduced in a 3 month period by taking EPA-DHA 2 times daily. Australian researchers showed fish oils to protect against late age related macular degeneration.


• They support mucus linings of the eyes, mouth, and vagina.


• Supplementation is an excellent adjunct for those on the Atkins diet to help build a better body and better overall health.
  

Because of their powerful influence on overall health, EPA-DHA ingredients are considered to be some of the most essential nutrients in the human diet. The imbalanced ratio of saturated fats to Omega 3 essential fatty acids in the American diet is 19 to 1. Prior to 1900, the ratio was 4 to1. It is easy to see that essential fatty acid supplementation is a must for most people in the western world. Supplemental doses of high grade, non- rancid flax and fish oil are now easily obtainable and extremely affordable.

Warning: Keep oils away from heat and light. Essential fatty acids are natural blood thinners and are not recommended if you are taking high doses or aspirin, using blood thinners, or anticipating surgery.