Health Tips – Issue 7

We are probably all aware, by now, of our need to consume foods rich in the Omega-3 Fatty Acids. We may not know why, so here’s a brief summary of just why we need more of this Fatty Acid. Essential Fatty acids are just that, “essential,” in that while we need them, our bodies cannot make them, so they must be obtained from the foods we eat. These are one of the “good fats” as they are the building blocks needed by every cell in our body. There are two of these essential Fatty acids, Omega-3 and Omega-6. The body uses these acids to synthesize long chain fatty acids that are then utilized in many ways and affect all bodily functions.

Until relatively recently, humans consumed a diet with a ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6 that ranged from 1:1 to 1:4. However, now that the standard American diet is weighted in favor of processed foods, foods cooked in vegetable oils, and animal products, the average ratio is now between 1:25 and 1:30. For optimum health the ratio should not go over 1:4.

Why is this important? This imbalance is causing a number of very serious health problems, including cancer, heart disease, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, (as seen in so many of our children), immune dysfunction, complications of menopause, and neurological diseases.

How do we assist the body in bringing this ‘imbalance’ into a more health supporting balance?
The best way would be to consume more of the foods rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and of course, reducing our intake of foods containing higher amounts of Omega-6 Fatty Acids.

Where do we find these essential Fatty Acids?

Omega-3 Fatty Acids are found in:
Fatty fish like tuna and salmon
Soybeans
Wheat germ
Walnuts
Hemp
Black currant
Flaxseeds (raw, and freshly ground for the meal),
Canola oil
Omega-6 Fatty Acids are found in:
Seeds
Sunflower, safflower and sesame oils
Animal products
Avocados
Grains


My husband and I recently discovered Hemp Nuts by Living Harvest, (although we also found it in the bulk area of our Health Food Stores). These are organic, shelled, raw Hemp Seeds. Here’s why you may want to consider adding them to your own diet:

Hemp Seeds:
Contain all 10 Essential Amino Acids.
Have a well-balanced ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 Essential Fatty Acids.
Hemp Seeds are one of the plant kingdom’s most complete sources of protein.
They also contain important enzymes, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients the body requires for life.

Talk about Seeds of Life! Sprinkle them on top of your salads, your soups, add to sandwiches, and wraps, top your cereals with them, or eat them by the spoonful! They’re not only good for you, but they taste great too! You may also want to try Hemp nut seed butter; great on toast or crackers!

Until next time, stay well, become your own best advocate, and remember, the food you eat today will decide the disease you present with tomorrow….or not!
: ) Joi

Contact me at: JoiLin@JoiLin4Health.com. If you want my one-page monthly newsletter with health information as well as great recipes, send me a note asking to be put on my Healthy Topics list.