Lack of Omega-3s can lead to issues like depression: Increase your intake today

Lack of Omega-3s in your diet can lead to an array of health problems including heart problems and depression. Here's how you can increase its intake.
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Increase your Omega-3s to improve brain functioning! Image Courtesy: Shutterstock
Arushi Bidhuri Published: 26 Nov 2022, 08:59 am IST
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In the realm of nutrition exist numerous nutrients that are believed to work wonders for your health. In the midst of the vitamins and minerals, people forget Omega-3 fatty acids. While most know that it is majorly obtained from fatty fish, what they fail to realise is that a lack of Omega-3 fatty acids in your system can lead to a plethora of health problems.

For the unversed, Omega-3 fatty acids are a vital component of your cell membrane in addition to being important to your immune system, cognitive function, and heart health. Clearly, a lack of Omega-3 can lead to a lot of health problems. Scroll down to know how an Omega-3 deficiency affects your health.

How do Omega-3 fatty acids affect your health?

When your body does not get enough Omega-3 fats, it can lead to some negative health effects. Here are some of the common side effects of a lack of omega-3 in the system:

Depression

Since Omega-3 fats are important for your brain, a lack of this nutrient in the system can lead to numerous diseases. As per the studies published in several journals, including Nutritional Neurosciences, a lack of omega-3 deficiency can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and bipolar disorder.

omega-3 fatty acids
Depression is a symptom of omega-3 deficiency. Image Courtesy: Shutterstock

Skin problems

Did you know that when you are lacking in Omega-3 fats, it starts showing on your skin? From dry skin to a sudden increase in acne, all are Omega-3 deficiency signs you shouldn’t ignore. In fact, Omega-3 is used in skincare products. So, load up on this nutrient if you want to avoid these skin problems.

Hair issues

Have you been facing a lot of hair problems lately? It could be due to omega-3 fat deficiency. Reports suggest that Omega-3 fats help maintain the texture of the hair and help strengthen it. So, it’s time to include omega-3 fatty acids in your diet NOW!

Dry eyes

According to the study published in the International Journal of Opthalmology, Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in maintaining eye health. It may help reduce symptoms of dry eyes. In fact, people are recommended Omega-3 supplements to improve dry eye syndrome. Increasing your intake of Omega-3 fatty acids can also promote good eye health.

Fatigue

Have you been feeling extremely tired without any specific reason? People who are deficient in Omega-3 fats tend to feel more tired as compared to those who do not.

Omega-3 fatty acids
What are the symptoms of omega-3 deficiency. Image Courtesy: Shutterstock

Sources of Omega-3 fatty acids

With so many side effects of not having enough Omega-3 fats, it is better to include more of these in your diet. The thing is Omega-3 fats are not produced by your body so you have to obtain them from natural sources. Here’s a list of foods that have the highest quantity of omega-3 fats, as per the National Institutes of Health.

  • Salmon
  • Flaxseed
  • Chia seeds
  • Canola oil
  • Mackerel
  • Soybeans
  • Tuna
  • Oysters
  • Eggs
  • Walnuts

Caution: Make sure you consult your doctor before making any dietary changes in your regimen.

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About the Author

Arushi Bidhuri is a journalist with 7 years of experience in writing, editing, and conceptualizing story ideas in different genres, including health and wellness, lifestyle, politics, beauty, fashion, etc. Arushi has a strong connection in the industry that helps her write concise and original stories as she believes in working towards writing pieces that can enlighten people. ...Read More

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