Published By: Sayan Paul

What are the main functions of omega-3 fatty acids in the human body?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of essential fats that your body needs to survive.

It has a major role in several important functions in your body.

Read ahead!

Omega-3 fatty acids play a significant role in several functions of your body. These fatty acids come in three different varieties namely eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid. They are naturally found in numerous food items such as walnuts, soybeans, chia seeds, salmon, oysters, and more.

Your body cannot produce omega-3 fatty acids on its own. Hence, you need to depend solely on your diet to meet the daily recommended amount.

Without further ado, let's have a look at the main functions of omega-3 fatty acids in your body.

Maintain eye health

DHA (a type of omega-3 fatty acids) makes for an important structural component of your eye's retina. It protects your eyes from damage and also improves your eyesight to some extent. Also, as some studies have found, it reduces your risk of various eye-related issues including cataracts and macular degeneration.

Help prevent obesity

As many research studies have indicated, omega-3 fatty acids help increase your body's metabolic rate. Also, it reduces the symptoms of metabolic syndrome, which includes central obesity. Hence, people struggling with obesity are recommended to eat an omega-3-rich diet regularly.

Fight off inflammation

Chronic or long-term inflammation is linked to several critical health issues. So, if you are suffering from the same, it's advised to maintain a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. DHA and EPA, two types of omega-3 fatty acids, are highly effective at reducing the process of inflammation in your body. Also, they improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis as well.

Support brain functions

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the growth and development of the brain in infants. Also, these fatty acids aid in your cognitive skills, which include focus, concentration, memory power, and more. It may also help lower your risk of Alzheimer’s disease as well. What's more, low omega-3 levels have been proven to be associated with several psychiatric disorders.

Aid in cardiovascular health

As research has found, Omega-3s regulate blood pressure levels, and also help reduce the levels of triglycerides in your body. Also, these fatty acids help increase HDL cholesterol (also known as good cholesterol) in your bloodstream. Moreover, they prevent blood clots and help inhibit the production of certain substances that wreak havoc on your heart health. An omega-3-rich diet may help reduce your risk of a number of cardiovascular disorders in the long run.

Besides these, omega-3 fatty acids also prevent asthma, fight autoimmune diseases, treat fatty liver diseases, improve bone & joint health, and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.