These Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Your Skin Will Surprise You

It is a well-known fact that Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the healthy functioning of the brain and heart. But only a few people are aware that omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial to the skin.

Yes, Omega-3 fatty acids can protect your skin. They are especially helpful for those with older skin and dry skin. More so, Omega-3 fatty acids are an important anti-inflammatory agent.

According to dermatologist Dr Kiran Lohia, eating diets rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce the risk factors of heart disease, promote brain health, improve eye health, fight anxiety and depression and also protect your skin. Kiran added that diets rich in Omega-3 fatty acids include herring, tuna, mackerel, salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds.

While still speaking on the benefit of Omega-3 fatty acids to the skin, Dr Kiran recommended that people should include foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids into their daily diet, but in case this is not possible, taking Omega-3 fatty acid supplements once daily is ok. 1 gram of Omega-3 fatty acids supplement a day is sufficient.

There are two basic types of omega-3 fatty acids, which are Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

icosapentaenoic acid holds more benefits for your skin. Some of the benefits of Omega-3 fatty acid to your skin include boosting hydration, regulating oil production, preventing acne, and preventing premature aging of the skin.

Lipid Research published in 2005 revealed that Eicosapentaenoic acid could help in preventing the release of Ultraviolet-induced enzymes that decrease collagen in the skin, cause skin sagging, and cause lines on the face.

More so, Eicosapentaenoic acid contains some useful antioxidants that protect the skin. It also works as an anti-inflammatory agent that protects the skin from any damage that may be caused by Ultraviolet rays from the sun.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids is an essential fatty acid. Hence, it cannot be reproduced in the body at the rate at which it is required. Therefore, it must be supplied from external sources – your diet.

Dr. Kiran noted that it may be difficult to get the recommended daily dosage of omega-3 fatty acids from diet, unless such a person is eating more of the following foods Nuts and seeds like Flaxseeds, Chia seeds, Walnuts, Hemp seeds, Kidney beans, Soybean oil, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, avocado, trout, and Brussel sprouts, and Fatty fish like herring, tuna, sardines, mackerel, salmon, etc. However, taking omega-3 fatty acids supplements daily can provide the same benefits. But it is advisable to consult one’s physician before taking supplements.

Aside from benefiting the skin, Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for your hair growth. Omega-3 fatty acids support and nourish the hair and supply the necessary oils to keep your scalp and hair oily. That is why Omega-3 fatty acids are available in most dandruff products.

Considering the many benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids to your skin and hair, you should take the RDA of Omega-3 fatty acids daily either from your diet or through supplements.