15.11.2012 Views

WHFoods: omega-3 fatty acids - Chronic Pain Australia

WHFoods: omega-3 fatty acids - Chronic Pain Australia

WHFoods: omega-3 fatty acids - Chronic Pain Australia

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

<strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong><br />

What can high-<strong>omega</strong>-3 foods do for you?<br />

Reduce inflammation throughout your body<br />

Keep your blood from clotting excessively<br />

Maintain the fluidity of your cell membranes<br />

lower the amount of lipids (fats such as cholesterol and triglycerides) circulating in the<br />

bloodstream<br />

decrease platelet aggregation, preventing excessive blood clotting<br />

inhibit thickening of the arteries by decreasing endothelial cells' production of a plateletderived<br />

growth factor (the lining of the arteries is composed of endothelial cells)<br />

increase the activity of another chemical derived from endothelial cells (endotheliumderived<br />

nitric oxide), which causes arteries to relax and dilate<br />

reduce the production of messenger chemicals called cytokines, which are involved in<br />

the inflammatory response associated with atherosclerosis<br />

reduce the risk of becoming obese and improve the body's ability to respond to insulin<br />

by stimulating the secretion of leptin, a hormone that helps regulate food intake, body<br />

weight and metabolism, and is expressed primarily by adipocytes (fat cells)<br />

help prevent cancer cell growth<br />

What conditions or symptoms indicate a need for more high-<strong>omega</strong>-3 foods?<br />

Depression<br />

Cardiovascular Disease<br />

Type 2 Diabetes<br />

Fatigue<br />

Dry, itchy skin<br />

Brittle hair and nails<br />

Inability to concentrate<br />

Joint pain<br />

Salmon, flax seeds and walnuts are excellent food sources of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>.<br />

Research indicates that <strong>omega</strong>-3s may be better absorbed from food than supplements.<br />

Norwegian researchers compared 71 volunteers' absorption of <strong>omega</strong>-3s (EPA and DHA) from<br />

salmon, smoked salmon, cod (14 ounces of fish per week) or cod liver oil (3 teaspoons per<br />

day). Cooked salmon provided 1.2 grams of <strong>omega</strong>-3s daily, while cod liver oil provided more<br />

than twice as much: 3 grams of <strong>omega</strong>-3s per day.<br />

Despite the fact that the salmon group got less than half the amount of <strong>omega</strong>-3s as the cod<br />

liver oil group, blood levels of <strong>omega</strong>-3s increased quite a bit more in those eating salmon<br />

than those taking cod liver oil. After 8 weeks, EPA levels had risen 129% and DHA rose 45%<br />

in those eating cooked salmon compared to 106% and 25%, respectively, in those taking cod<br />

liver oil.<br />

In the group eating smoked salmon, blood levels of <strong>omega</strong>-3s rose about one-third less than<br />

in the salmon group. In those eating cod, the rise in <strong>omega</strong>-3s was very small.<br />

Concurrent with the rise in <strong>omega</strong>-3s in those eating salmon, a drop was seen in blood levels<br />

1 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

of a number of pro-inflammatory chemicals (TNFalpha, IL-8, leukotriene B4, and<br />

thromboxane B2). Researchers think <strong>omega</strong>-3s may be better absorbed from fish because<br />

fish contains these fats in the form of triglycerides, while the <strong>omega</strong>-3s in almost all refined<br />

fish oils are in the ethyl ester form. Once absorbed, <strong>omega</strong>-3s are converted by the body<br />

from their triglyceride to ester forms as needed. Lipids. 2006 Dec;41(12):1109-14.<br />

Description<br />

Function<br />

Deficiency Symptoms<br />

Toxicity Symptoms<br />

Cooking, storage and processing<br />

Factors that affect function<br />

Description<br />

What are <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

Drug-nutrient interaction<br />

Nutrient interaction<br />

Health conditions<br />

Supplements<br />

Food Sources<br />

Public Recommendations<br />

References<br />

You've probably been hearing about <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> in recent years. The reason? A<br />

growing body of scientific research indicates that these healthy fats help prevent a wide<br />

range of medical problems, including cardiovascular disease, depression, asthma, and<br />

rheumatoid arthritis.<br />

Unlike the saturated fats found in butter and lard, <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> are polyunsaturated.<br />

In chemistry class, the terms "saturated" and "polyunsaturated" refer to the number of<br />

hydrogen atoms that are attached to the carbon chain of the <strong>fatty</strong> acid. In the kitchen, these<br />

terms take on a far more practical meaning.<br />

Polyunsaturated fats, unlike saturated fats, are liquid at room temperature and remain liquid<br />

when refrigerated or frozen. Monounsaturated fats, found in olive oil, are liquid at room<br />

temperature, but harden when refrigerated. When eaten in appropriate amounts, each type<br />

of fat can contribute to health. However, the importance of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> in health<br />

promotion and disease prevention cannot be overstated.<br />

The three most nutritionally important <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> are alpha-linolenic acid,<br />

eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).<br />

Alpha-linolenic acid is one of two <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> traditionally classified as "essential." The other<br />

<strong>fatty</strong> acid traditionally viewed as essential is an <strong>omega</strong> 6 fat called linoleic acid. These <strong>fatty</strong><br />

<strong>acids</strong> have traditionally been classified as "essential" because the body is unable to<br />

manufacture them on its own and because they play a fundamental role in several<br />

2 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

physiological functions. As a result, we must be sure our diet contains sufficient amounts of<br />

both alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid.<br />

Dietary sources of alpha-linolenic acid include flaxseeds, walnuts, hemp seeds, soybeans and<br />

some dark green leafy vegetables. Linoleic acid is found in high concentrations in corn oil,<br />

safflower oil, sunflower oil, and canola oil. Most people consume a much higher amount of<br />

linoleic acid than alpha-linolenic acid, which has important health consequences. For more<br />

information on the proper ratio of these <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> in the diet, see our FAQ entitled, A New<br />

Way of Looking at Proteins, Fats, and Carbohydrates<br />

The body converts alpha-linolenic acid into two important <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats, eicosapentaenoic<br />

acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA). These fats can also be derived directly from<br />

certain foods, most notably cold-water fish including salmon, tuna, halibut, and herring. In<br />

addition, certain types of algae contain DHA. EPA is believed to play a role in the prevention<br />

of cardiovascular disease, while DHA is the necessary for proper brain and nerve<br />

development.<br />

How it Functions<br />

What are the functions of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

Every cell in our body is surrounded by a cell membrane composed mainly of <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>. The<br />

cell membrane allows the proper amounts of necessary nutrients to enter the cell, and<br />

ensures that waste products are quickly removed from the cell.<br />

Promoting Healthy Cell Membranes<br />

To perform these functions optimally, however, the cell membrane must maintain its integrity<br />

and fluidity. Cells without a healthy membrane lose their ability to hold water and vital<br />

nutrients. They also lose their ability to communicate with other cells. Researchers believe<br />

that loss of cell to cell communication is one of the physiological events that leads to growth<br />

of cancerous tumors.<br />

Because cell membranes are made up of fat, the integrity and fluidity of our cell membranes<br />

is determined in large part by the type of fat we eat. Remember that saturated fats are solid<br />

at room temperature, while <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats are liquid at room temperature. Researchers believe<br />

that diets containing large amounts of saturated or hydrogenated fats produce cell<br />

membranes that are hard and lack fluidity. On the other hand, diets rich in <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats<br />

produce cell membranes with a high degree of fluidity.<br />

In addition, recent in vitro (test tube) evidence suggests when <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> are<br />

incorporated into cell membranes they may help to protect against cancer, notably of the<br />

breast. They are suggested to promote breast cancer cell apoptosis via several mechanisms<br />

including: inhibiting a pro-inflammatory enzyme called cyclooxygenase 2 (COX 2), which<br />

promotes breast cancer; activating a type of receptor in cell membranes called peroxisome<br />

proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-ã, which can shut down proliferative activity in a<br />

variety of cells including breast cells; and, increasing the expression of BRCA1 and BRCA2,<br />

tumor suppressor genes that, when functioning normally, help repair damage to DNA, thus<br />

helping to prevent cancer development.<br />

Animal and test tube studies published in the November 2005 issue of the International<br />

Journal of Cancer suggest yet another way in which the <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> found in cold<br />

water fish-docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-help protect against<br />

breast cancer development.<br />

All dietary <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> are incorporated into cell membranes, and the type of <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong><br />

dictates how a cell responds and grows. Researchers found that <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> affect<br />

cell growth by activating an enzyme called sphingomyelinase, which then generates the<br />

release of ceramide, a compound that induces the expression of the human tumor suppressor<br />

3 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

gene p21, which ultimately causes cancer cell death.<br />

In the animal experiments, mice were fed diets rich in either <strong>omega</strong>-3 (fish oil) or <strong>omega</strong>-6<br />

(corn oil) <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> after which breast cancer cells were implanted. Three weeks later, tumor<br />

volume and weight was significantly lower in mice on the <strong>omega</strong>-3 rich diet. In the lab<br />

culture experiments, when cells were treated with DHA or EPA, sphingomyelinase activity<br />

increased by 30-40%, and breast cancer cell growth dropped 20-25%.<br />

Prostaglandin Production<br />

Omega-3 fats also play an important role in the production of powerful hormone-like<br />

substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins help regulate many important physiological<br />

functions including blood pressure, blood clotting, nerve transmission, the inflammatory and<br />

allergic responses, the functions of the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and the production<br />

of other hormones.<br />

In essence, all prostaglandins perform essential physiological functions. However, depending<br />

on the type of fat in the diet, certain types of prostaglandins may be produced in large<br />

quantities, while others may not be produced at all. This can set up an imbalance throughout<br />

the body that can lead to disease.<br />

For example, EPA and DHA serve as direct precursors for series 3 prostaglandins, which have<br />

been called "good" or "beneficial" because they reduce platelet aggregation, reduce<br />

inflammation and improve blood flow. The role of EPA and DHA in the prevention of<br />

cardiovascular disease can be explained in large part by the ability of these fats to increase<br />

the production of favorable prostaglandins.<br />

The <strong>omega</strong> 6 fats serve as precursors for series 1 and series 2 prostaglandins. Like the series<br />

3 prostaglandins produced from <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats, series 1 prostaglandins are believed to be<br />

beneficial. On the other hand, series 2 prostaglandins are usually considered to be "bad" or<br />

"unhealthy," since these prostaglandins promote an inflammatory response and increase<br />

platelet aggregation. As a result, it is important to ensure proper balance of <strong>omega</strong>-3 and<br />

<strong>omega</strong>-6 fats in the diet.<br />

EPA Directly Anti-Inflammatory<br />

A recently identified lipid (fat) product our bodies make from EPA, called resolvins, helps<br />

explain how this <strong>omega</strong>-3 fat provides anti-inflammatory effects on our joints and improves<br />

blood flow.<br />

Resolvins, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in animal studies, are made from<br />

EPA by our cellular enzymes, and work by inhibiting the production and regulating the<br />

migration of inflammatory cells and chemicals to sites of inflammation. Unlike<br />

anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and the COX-2 inhibitors, the resolvins<br />

our bodies produce from EPA do not have negative side effects on our gastrointestinal or<br />

cardiovascular systems.<br />

Deficiency Symptoms<br />

What are deficiency symptoms for <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

Recent statistics indicate that nearly 99% of people in the United States do not eat enough<br />

<strong>omega</strong> 3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>. However, the symptoms of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> acid deficiency are very<br />

vague, and can often be attributed to some other health conditions or nutrient deficiencies.<br />

Consequently, few people (or their physicians, for that matter) realize that they are not<br />

consuming enough <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>. The symptoms of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> acid deficiency<br />

include fatigue, dry and/or itchy skin, brittle hair and nails, constipation, frequent colds,<br />

depression, poor concentration, lack of physical endurance, and/or joint pain.<br />

4 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

Toxicity Symptoms<br />

What are toxicity symptoms for <strong>omega</strong> 3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

In its 2002 guidelines for <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> acid intake, the Institute of Medicine at the National<br />

Academy of Sciences declined to establish a Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for <strong>omega</strong>-3s.<br />

However, research was cited showing increased risk of bleeding and hemorrhagic stroke in a<br />

few studies following supplementation with <strong>omega</strong>-3s. Individuals who have disorders<br />

involving bleeding, who bruise very easily, or who are taking blood thinners should consult<br />

with a medical practitioner before taking supplemental <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>.<br />

Impact of Cooking, Storage and Processing<br />

How do cooking, storage, or processing affect <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

Polyunsaturated oils, including the <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats, are extremely susceptible to damage from<br />

heat, light, and oxygen. When exposed to these elements for too long, the <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> in the<br />

oil become oxidized, a scientific term that simply means that the oil becomes rancid.<br />

Rancidity not only alters the flavor and smell of the oil, but it also diminishes the nutritional<br />

value. More importantly, the oxidation of <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> produces free radicals, which are<br />

believed to play a role in the development of cancer and other degenerative diseases.<br />

Under most circumstances, the problem of rancidity only arises when the oils are removed<br />

from their natural food package. For example, the hard shell of the flaxseed protects the oil<br />

inside the seed from heat, light, and oxygen. Flaxseeds also contain antioxidant compounds,<br />

such as vitamin E, that provide additional protection against oxidation. But, when the seed is<br />

pressed to isolate the oil, the oil becomes vulnerable to the elements.<br />

As a result, oils rich in polyunsaturated <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> should be stored in dark glass, tightly<br />

closed containers in the refrigerator or freezer. In addition, these oils should never be heated<br />

on the stove. So, instead of sautéing your vegetables in flaxseed or walnut oil, make a salad<br />

dressing using these oils.<br />

Although less a problem with whole foods than processed oils, some foods containing<br />

<strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> appear to lose some of their health benefits (like heart protection) when<br />

the foods are fried. Fried fish is a good example in this area, since fried fish containing<br />

<strong>omega</strong>-3s have been shown to provide less heart protection than baked or broiled fish<br />

containing the same amount of <strong>omega</strong>-3s.<br />

Factors that Affect Function<br />

What factors might contribute to a deficiency of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

The conversion of alpha-linolenic acid to EPA and DHA involves a series of chemical reactions.<br />

One of the first reactions in this series is catalyzed by the enzyme delta-6 desaturase. Further<br />

down the line is a reaction that is catalyzed by the enzyme delta-5 desaturase. Unfortunately,<br />

it is now well-known that these enzymes do not function optimally in many people, and,<br />

consequently, only a small amount of the alpha-linolenic acid consumed in the diet is<br />

converted to EPA, DHA, and ultimately to the anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.<br />

To increase the activity of your desaturase enzymes, be sure that your diet includes a<br />

sufficient amount of vitamin B6, vitamin B3, vitamin C, magnesium and zinc. In addition,<br />

limit your intake of saturated fat and partially hydrogenated fat, as these fats are known to<br />

decrease the activity of delta-6 desaturase. Also, to be on the safe side, consider including a<br />

direct source of EPA and DHA if your diet, such as wild-caught salmon, halibut, or tuna.<br />

Drug-Nutrient Interactions<br />

5 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

What medications affect <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

Fish oil supplements containing high amounts of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> have been shown to<br />

reduce high blood pressure in people taking cyclosporine, an immunosuppressive drug used<br />

to prevent rejection of transplanted organs.<br />

In addition, a high dietary intake of <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats, especially from fish, may decrease blood<br />

pressure and thin the blood. People taking prescription blood pressure medications and/or<br />

anticoagulants should consult with their physician before taking fish oil supplements.<br />

Nutrient Interactions<br />

How do other nutrients interact with <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

Vitamin E, the primary fat-soluble antioxidant, protects <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats from oxidation.<br />

Oxidation is a chemical process that produces free radicals.<br />

Health Conditions<br />

What health conditions require special emphasis on <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

Omega-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> may play a role in the prevention and/or treatment of the following<br />

health conditions:<br />

Alzheimer's disease<br />

Asthma<br />

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)<br />

Bipolar disorder<br />

Cancer<br />

Cardiovascular disease<br />

Depression<br />

Diabetes<br />

Eczema<br />

High blood pressure<br />

Huntington's disease<br />

Lupus<br />

Migraine headaches<br />

Multiple sclerosis<br />

Obesity<br />

Osteoarthritis<br />

Osteoporosis<br />

Psoriasis<br />

Rheumatoid arthritis<br />

Form in Dietary Supplements<br />

What forms of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> are found in dietary supplements?<br />

In supplemental form, <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> are available as softgels (like a vitamin E capsule)<br />

or as bottled liquids. Flaxseed oil, a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid, and cod liver oil, a rich<br />

source of EPA and DHA, are among the most popular <strong>omega</strong>-3 supplements.<br />

When purchasing an <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> acid supplement, remember that these oils are highly<br />

sensitive to damage from heat, light and oxygen. Choose a certified organic product that has<br />

been refrigerated and is packaged in a dark brown or green glass jar and be sure to store the<br />

product in your refrigerator or freezer.<br />

It is also advisable to choose a supplement that contains vitamin E. Vitamin E is a powerful<br />

6 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

antioxidant, which is added to the oil to prevent the <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> from becoming oxidized (or<br />

rancid).<br />

Food Sources<br />

Introduction to Nutrient Rating System Chart<br />

The following chart shows the World's Healthiest Foods that are either excellent, very good or<br />

good sources of this nutrient. Next to each food name you will find the following information:<br />

the serving size of the food; the number of calories in one serving; DV% (percent daily value)<br />

of the nutrient contained in one serving (similar to other information presented in the<br />

website, this DV is calculated for 25-50 year old healthy woman); the nutrient density rating;<br />

and the food's World's Healthiest Foods Rating. Underneath the chart is a table that<br />

summarizes how the ratings were devised. Read detailed information on our Nutrient Rating<br />

System.<br />

Introduction to Nutrient Rating System Chart<br />

In order to better help you identify foods that feature a high concentration of nutrients for<br />

the calories they contain, we created a Food Rating System. This system allows us to<br />

highlight the foods that are especially rich in particular nutrients. The following chart shows<br />

the World's Healthiest Foods that are either an excellent, very good, or good source of <strong>omega</strong><br />

3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>. Next to each food name, you'll find the serving size we used to calculate the<br />

food's nutrient composition, the calories contained in the serving, the amount of <strong>omega</strong> 3<br />

<strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> contained in one serving size of the food, the percent Daily Value (DV%) that this<br />

amount represents, the nutrient density that we calculated for this food and nutrient, and the<br />

rating we established in our rating system. For most of our nutrient ratings, we adopted the<br />

government standards for food labeling that are found in the U.S. Food and Drug<br />

Administration's "Reference Values for Nutrition Labeling." Read more background information<br />

and details of our rating system.<br />

World's Healthiest Foods ranked as quality sources of:<br />

<strong>omega</strong> 3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong><br />

Food<br />

Serving<br />

Size Cals<br />

Amount<br />

(g)<br />

DV<br />

(%)<br />

Nutrient<br />

Density<br />

World's<br />

Healthiest<br />

Foods<br />

Rating<br />

Flaxseeds 2 tbs 95.3 3.51 146.3 27.6 excellent<br />

Cloves, dried, ground 2 tsp 14.2 0.20 8.3 10.6 very good<br />

Walnuts 0.25 cup 163.5 2.27 94.6 10.4 excellent<br />

Oregano, dried, ground 2 tsp 9.2 0.12 5.0 9.8 very good<br />

Salmon, chinook,<br />

baked/broiled<br />

4 oz-wt 261.9 2.09 87.1 6.0 excellent<br />

Cauliflower, boiled 1 cup 28.5 0.21 8.8 5.5 very good<br />

Sardines<br />

3.25 oz<br />

can<br />

191.4 1.36 56.7 5.3 very good<br />

Mustard seeds 2 tsp 35.0 0.20 8.3 4.3 very good<br />

Cabbage, shredded, boiled 1 cup 33.0 0.17 7.1 3.9 very good<br />

Romaine lettuce 2 cup 15.7 0.08 3.3 3.8 good<br />

Broccoli, steamed 1 cup 43.7 0.20 8.3 3.4 very good<br />

Brussel sprouts, boiled 1 cup 60.8 0.26 10.8 3.2 good<br />

Winter squash, baked, cubes 1 cup 80.0 0.34 14.2 3.2 good<br />

7 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

Tofu, raw 4 oz-wt 86.2 0.36 15.0 3.1 good<br />

Summer squash, cooked,<br />

slices<br />

1 cup 36.0 0.15 6.3 3.1 good<br />

Halibut, baked/broiled 4 oz-wt 158.8 0.62 25.8 2.9 good<br />

Collard greens, boiled 1 cup 49.4 0.18 7.5 2.7 good<br />

Spinach, boiled 1 cup 41.4 0.15 6.3 2.7 good<br />

Kale, boiled 1 cup 36.4 0.13 5.4 2.7 good<br />

Soybeans, cooked 1 cup 297.6 1.03 42.9 2.6 good<br />

Shrimp, steamed/boiled 4 oz-wt 112.3 0.37 15.4 2.5 good<br />

Turnip greens, cooked 1 cup 28.8 0.09 3.8 2.3 good<br />

Cod, baked/broiled 4 oz-wt 119.1 0.32 13.3 2.0 good<br />

Strawberries 1 cup 43.2 0.11 4.6 1.9 good<br />

Green beans, boiled 1 cup 43.8 0.11 4.6 1.9 good<br />

Snapper, baked/broiled 4 oz-wt 145.2 0.36 15.0 1.9 good<br />

Scallops, baked/broiled 4 oz-wt 151.7 0.35 14.6 1.7 good<br />

Tuna, yellowfin,<br />

baked/broiled<br />

4 oz-wt 157.6 0.33 13.8 1.6 good<br />

Raspberries 1 cup 60.3 0.12 5.0 1.5 good<br />

Miso 1 oz 70.8 0.14 5.8 1.5 good<br />

World's Healthiest<br />

Foods Rating Rule<br />

excellent DV>=75% OR Density>=7.6 AND DV>=10%<br />

very good DV>=50% OR Density>=3.4 AND DV>=5%<br />

good DV>=25% OR Density>=1.5 AND DV>=2.5%<br />

Public Health Recommendations<br />

What are current public health recommendations for <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>?<br />

In 2002, the Institute of Medicine at the National Academy of Sciences issued Adequate<br />

Intake (AI) levels for linolenic acid, the initial building block for all <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> found<br />

in the body. For male teenagers and adult men, 1.6 grams per day were recommended, For<br />

female teenagers and adult women, the recommended amount was 1.1 grams per day. These<br />

guidelines do not seem as well-matched to the existing health research on <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong><br />

<strong>acids</strong> as guidelines issued by the Workshop on the Essentiality of and Recommended Dietary<br />

Intakes (RDI) for Omega-6 and Omega-3 Fatty Acids in 1999 sponsored by the National<br />

Institutes of Health (NIH). This panel of experts recommended that people consume at least<br />

2% of their total daily calories as <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats. To meet this recommendation, a person<br />

consuming 2000 calories per day should eat sufficient <strong>omega</strong>-3-rich foods to provide at least<br />

4 grams of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>.<br />

This goal can be easily met by adding just two foods to your diet: flaxseeds and wild-caught<br />

salmon. Two tablespoons of flaxseeds contain 3.5 grams of <strong>omega</strong>-3 fats, while a 4 ounce<br />

piece of salmon contains 1.5 grams of <strong>omega</strong> 3 fats. There's research evidence showing that<br />

two servings of non-fried fish per week-especially salmon, tuna, and halibut-can be enough to<br />

significantly increase the level of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> in your blood (including the level of<br />

both EPA and DHA).<br />

Vegans and vegetarians relying on ALA as their only source of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> should<br />

increase their consumption of ALA-rich foods accordingly to ensure sufficient production its<br />

8 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

important derivatives, EPA and DHA.<br />

References<br />

Arita M, Bianchini F, Aliberti J, Sher A, Chiang N, Hong S, Yang R, Petasis NA, Serhan CN.<br />

Stereochemical assignment, antiinflammatory properties, and receptor for the <strong>omega</strong>-3<br />

lipid mediator resolvin E1. J Exp Med. 2005 Mar 7;201(5):713-22. 2005.<br />

PMID:15753205.<br />

Bernard-Gallon DJ, Vissac-Sabatier C, Antoine-Vincent D et al. Differential effects of n-3<br />

and n-6 polyunsaturated <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> on BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene expression in breast cell<br />

lines. Br J Nutr 2002 Apr;87(4):281-9 2002.<br />

Elvevoll EO, Barstad H, Breimo ES, Brox J, Eilertsen KE, Lund T, Olsen JO, Osterud B.<br />

Enhanced incorporation of n-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> from fish compared with fish oils. Lipids. 2006<br />

Dec;41(12):1109-14. 2006. PMID:17269556.<br />

Erkkila A, Lichtenstein A, Mozaffarian D, Herrington D. Fish intake is associated with a<br />

reduced progression of coronary artery atherosclerosis in postmenopausal women with<br />

coronary artery disease. Am J Clin Nutr , Sept. 2004; (80(3):626-32. 2004.<br />

PMID:15321802.<br />

Fickova M, Hubert P, Cremel G, Leray C. Dietary (n-3) and (n-6) polyunsaturated <strong>fatty</strong><br />

<strong>acids</strong> rapidly modify <strong>fatty</strong> acid composition and insulin effects in rat adipocytes. J Nutr<br />

1998 Mar;128(3):512-9 1998. PMID:8980.<br />

Groff JL, Gropper SS, Hunt SM. Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. West<br />

Publishing Company, New York, 1995 1995.<br />

Heller A, Koch T. [Immunonutrition with <strong>omega</strong>-3-<strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>. Are new anti-inflammatory<br />

strategies in sight?]. Zentralbl Chir 2000;125(2):123-36 2000. PMID:15830.<br />

Lawson LD, Hughes BG. Absorption of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid<br />

from fish oil triacylglycerols or fish oil ethyl esters co-ingested with a high-fat meal.<br />

Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 1988 Oct 31;156(2):960-3. 1988. PMID:2847723.<br />

Lininger SW, et al. A-Z guide to drug-herb-vitamin interactions. Prima Health, Rocklin,<br />

CA, 2000 2000.<br />

Mahan K, Escott-Stump S. Krause's Food, Nutrition, and Diet Therapy. WB Saunders<br />

Company; Philadelphia, 1996 1996.<br />

Maillard V, Bougnoux P, Ferrari P et al. N-3 and N-6 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> in breast adipose tissue<br />

and relative risk of breast cancer in a case-control study in Tours, France. Int J Cancer<br />

2002 Mar 1;98(1):78-83 2002.<br />

Matute P. Consumption of fish to allay obesity. Paper presented at the 6th Congress of<br />

the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids, Brighton, Great Britain,<br />

December 12, 2004. 2004.<br />

Osmundsen H, Clouet P. Metabolic effects of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>. Biofactors<br />

2000;13(1-4):5-8 2000. PMID:15800.<br />

Popp-Snijders C, Schouten JA, Heine RJ, et al. Dietary supplementation of <strong>omega</strong>-3<br />

polyunsaturated <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> improves insulin sensitivity in non-insulin-dependent<br />

diabetes. Diabetes Res 1987 Mar;4(3):141-7 1987. PMID:8990.<br />

Serhan CN, Hong S, Gronert K, Colgan SP, Devchand PR, Mirick G, Moussignac RL.<br />

Resolvins: a family of boactive products of <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> acid transformation circuits<br />

initiated by aspirin treatment that counter proinflammation signals. J Exp Med. 2002 Oct<br />

21;196(8):1025-37. 2002. PMID:12391014.<br />

Severus WE, Littman AB, Stoll AL. Omega-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>, homocysteine, and the increased<br />

risk of cardiovascular mortality in major depressive disorder. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2001<br />

Nov-2001 Dec 31;9(6):280-93 2001. PMID:15780.<br />

Stoll BA. n-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> and lipid peroxidation in breast cancer inhibition. Br J Nutr 2002<br />

March;87(3):193-8 2002.<br />

Stoll BA. Essential <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>, insulin resistance, and breast cancer risk. Nutr Cancer.<br />

1998;31(1):72-77. 1998.<br />

Vaddadi KS, Soosai E, Chiu E et al. A randomised, placebo-controlled, double blind study<br />

of treatment of Huntington's disease with unsaturated <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong>. Neuroreport<br />

2002;13:29-33 2002.<br />

Watkins BA, Li Y, Lippman HE, Seifert MF. Omega-3 polyunsaturated <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> and<br />

9 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM


<strong>WHFoods</strong>: <strong>omega</strong>-3 <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?pfriendly=1&tname=nutrient&d...<br />

skeletal health. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2001 Jun;226(6):485-97 2001. PMID:15790.<br />

Watkins BA, Li Y, Seifert MF. Nutraceutical <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> as biochemical and molecular<br />

modulators of skeletal biology. Am J Clin Nutr 2001;20(5):410S-420S 2001.<br />

Wu M, Harvey KA, Ruzmetov N, Welch ZR, Sech L, Jackson K, Stillwell W, Zaloga GP,<br />

Siddiqui RA. Omega-3 polyunsaturated <strong>fatty</strong> <strong>acids</strong> attenuate breast cancer growth<br />

through activation of a neutral sphingomyelinase-mediated pathway. Int J Cancer. 2005<br />

Nov 10;117(3):340-8. 2005. PMID:15900589.<br />

© 2001-2010 The George Mateljan Foundation<br />

10 of 10 23/11/2010 1:30 PM

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!