As recently as only about 150 years ago, it is thought that we once consumed an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of 1:1, but now people in developed countries like Australia tend to consume 15 times more omega-6 than omega-3, resulting in omega-3 deficiency.

Popular and convenient processed foods, which form such a large part of our diets today, are deliberately stripped of many EFAs to preserve shelf life. At the same time, we tend to consume large amounts of foods heavy in saturated fats (fries, potato chips, crackers, baked goods, ice cream, and other quick snack foods). We also consume a lot of meat which contains a fatty acid called arachidonic acid (AA), which, in excess, has potentially harmful effects. The balance of fats in the typical Australian diet is dramatically out of sync with the needs of our bodies. An insufficiency of fish in our diet has led to a decrease in our intake of omega-3 fatty acids by 80% during the last century.

EFAs play crucial roles in the body on a minute-by-minute basis including

  • Producing hormone-like compounds (prostaglandins)
  • Maintaining cell membrane function
  • Regulating pain, inflammation, and swelling
  • Dilating and constricting blood vessels
  • Mediating immune response
  • Regulating smooth muscle responses
  • Preventing blood clots
  • Regulating blood pressure and nerve transmission
  • Regulating cholesterol levels and much more

Deficiencies of EFAs, which are so vital to many of the bodys most basic functions, can lead to many health problems for both men and women. EFA deficiency can be recognised by clinicians by being aware of the characteristics of deficiency symptoms. When using omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils, it assists the clinician to know the amounts of EPA+DHA needed to achieve optimal clinical results.

Nordic Naturals Clinical Handbook explains the importance of EFAs for the health care practice. This 14-page handbook reviews common dietary sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fats and discusses the metabolism, function, and proven health benefits of omega-3s. Supplementation is also considered, including product selection, dosage, molecular form, and safety. Click here to download the handbook