|
2004/04/26, 12:36 PM
There are two essential fats that your body is unable to produce: the omega-6 fat, called linoleic acid, and the omega-3 fat, called alpha-linolenic acid. These fats, which are both in flax oil, are essential, because they actually help form parts of the structure of your brain, eyes, ears, adrenals, joints and just about every cell in the body. When these two fats are deficient, body function declines. Plus, these essential fats help reduce body fat. Yes, you read that right -- they reduce body fat!
According to The Complete Guide To Fats and Oils in Health and Nutrition by Udo Erasmus and the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, clinical and physiological research has shown that the majority of diets are deficient in omega-3 fats and that this deficiency can result in:
Coronary Heart Disease: Studies show that oils containing omega-3 can have a number of beneficial effects in the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease. Omega-3’s have been shown to reduce the cholesterol ratio, blood pressure, triglyceride levels and cardiac arrhythmia.
Cancer: Omega-3 has been shown to selectively kill human cancer cells in tissue culture studies, without harming normal cells. Clinical studies are confirming the potential of high doses of omega-3 to reduce tumor growth.
Arthritis: Several double blind studies have shown that when oils rich in omega-3 are taken as a dietary supplement, about two-thirds of patients are able to discontinue their non-steroidal drugs and a further 20 percent can cut down their drug use.
Skin Problems: Skin conditions, such as psoriasis, acne, eczema and other allergic conditions, and dry skin have all been shown to be partly related to omega-3 deficiency.
Stress: Omega-3 fatty acids are the precursors for the Series 3 prostaglandins, which regulate immune function and are responsible for reversing the body's physiological response to stress. Some clinical studies have indicated a sense of calmness in response to omega-3's.
Take a look at some other interesting facts about flax oil:
Assists in the protection of the body against inflammation, water retention and lowered immune system.
Shortens recovery time for worked out muscles after high exertion.
Assists in the healing of sprains and bruising.
Increases the metabolic rate by stimulating brown fat cells, making it easier to lose body fat.
Lignan, a phytochemical that acts as an antioxidant, is found in flax. Populations that have high amounts of lignan in their diet show low incidence of breast cancer and colon cancer. It’s important to look for high quality flaxseed oil. Based on the fact that flax oil can easily be destroyed by light and oxygen, it should come in a dark or amber brown bottle. In addition, it should be refrigerated and never used for cooking. It can be combined in a protein shake or poured over your favorite food.
As with everything in the world of health, flax is not the sole answer to all your issues. It’s a great supplement, but you still need to exercise regularly and consume nutritious foods. Flax oil is a marvelous fat and one more ingredient in your arsenal for great health and fitness.
-Raphael Calzadilla-
***I just read these articles and figured I would share them with all of you. They are very very interesting and contain insight that has probably been shared before, but I found them very helpful.***
|
