A Guide to Omega 3 and Depression
Omega 3 and Depression
Natural remedies for depression...
Because of the negative side-effects associated with prescription anti-depressants, many people suffering from the symptoms of mild to moderate depression are looking at natural remedies. Several studies over the last seven years have established that there is a link between Omega 3 and depression relief.
In three of these studies involving dietary supplementation of Omega 3 fatty acids, which are found in several food sources including olive oil and especially fish oil, depression was often lifted somewhat after four weeks and greatly relieved after six to eight weeks. The results of studies using both EPA and DHA were more promising than the studies which used either of these two fatty acids alone.
Depression can also be a symptom of a vitamin deficiency, particularly a dietary deficiency of the B-complex, so a multi-vitamin supplement is often also suggested as one of the natural remedies for depression in addition to fish oils.
Other natural remedies and depression relief techniques include a regular exercise program, adequate sleep, meditation and eating a balanced healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables (particularly leafy greens) and fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, herring and sardines.
Fish Oil Depression
One fish that especially naturally high in crucial DHA and EPA is called the Hoki, which is native to the deep waters off of the coast of New Zealand. Hoki is used in some of the highest quality fish oil supplements.
In short, people looking for Omega 3 and depression relief may want to look into fish oils made from Hoki.
Fortunately, in recent years, much more has been written on the subject of natural remedies for depression relief, omega 3 and depression relief and the fish oil depression link. User's Guide to Natural Remedies for Depression by Linda Knittel contains information on easing and preventing depression and advice on when to seek professional help.
Depression can be a very serious mental disorder and anyone suffering from it should seek professional advice from a physician, psychiatrist or psychologist.
These natural remedies and depression medications, although effective for many, can also cause side effects. Supplements of Omega 3 and depression prescriptions are often taken at the same time, but it's never advisable to do so unless you let your doctor know first.
Get more information about Omega 3 and Depression and learn how to choose a high quality fish oil supplement at: Fish Oil Depression
Selecting Home Exercise Equipment That's Right for You
So often people will make the decision to go out to the nearest fitness equipment store or local department store and buy some home exercise equipment. They want to start an exercise program, but don't want to go to the gym for any number of reasons, making exercising at home the best choice.
They will, with the best of intentions, buy a piece or two of equipment based on the recommendation of a friend or family member who swears by their choice. In some cases, they have no idea what they want and just go off without a clue, only to end up buying something based on appearance or a salespersons pitch of the item.
The problem with this is, if the equipment you buy doesn't suit your needs, in the long run, it will end up collecting dust in the closet or become an expensive coat hanger. Almost everyone knows someone who has some kind of exercise device or another that in terms of use is brand new, but they've had the thing for over two years. They probably bought their equipment with every intention to make full use of it, so why didn't they make full use of it?
When setting out to purchase home exercise equipment, there are some things which must be considered very carefully before you go out and drag home something you will be disappointed with. Here are some tips that are paramount to know when considering home exercise equipment.
First of all, are you really committed to exercising on a regular basis? This is probably the single biggest factor. If you are not, you will not benefit from anything you buy.
The second thing is what type of exercise do you want to do? If you are looking to build muscle, buying a stationary bike will be of little value just as if you are looking to build your aerobic capacity, a weight bench and weights will not be the best choice.
Next is how much money do you have or are you willing to spend on exercise equipment? You do get better equipment when you spend more money, but for a smaller investment, you can still get equipment that will get the job done. The key here is to shop around and find the best equipment you can within your budget.
You must next consider how much space is available where the equipment will go? This is an often overlooked but very important point. There must be enough room for your equipment to fit, and there must be room for you to use it to the fullest once it is there. How can you get anything from your equipment if you don't have the room to maneuver around to make use of it after it is set up?
Once you have your equipment in place, a good way to make sure you keep at it is to make yourself accountable by having a fiend ask you every day if you did your routine for that day and to monitor your progress. You can also make it more enjoyable by putting on some music while you exercise or even put a sporting event on your TV to check on while you go at it, whatever the case, just associate it with something you enjoy and it will be much easier to stick with.
If you are considering the purchase of home exercise equipment, these few tips should help you to make the right choice in selecting equipment that you will benefit from for years to come.
About The Author:
Jim O'Neill gives you tons of valuable information on the subjects of weight loss, fitness, and nutrition to make it easy for you to live a healthy lifestyle. Sign up now for his free newsletter at: http://www.mrgymhealth.com
Heart Health with Essential Fatty Acids
Why should I increase my Omega fatty acid intake?
Our intake of essential fatty acids has changed radically in the last century. Our ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 should be close to 1:1, but it is now over 10:1 and up to 20:1. This is due to the addition of corn, sunflower, safflower, sesame and other Omega-6 oils to our food supply. Such excesses are thought by many scientists to be a factor in a number of chronic medical conditions including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, asthma, acne, obesity and depression. It is clear that we need to increase our intake of Omega-3 fatty acids and decrease our intake of Omega-6 (linoleic acid) oils. By doing so we will be, look and feel healthier.
What are good fats and bad fats?
Fat is a concentrated source of energy. This source of energy is very useful during aerobic exercise. The longer the exercise, the higher the fat contribution for providing energy. Fat is particularly used in large quantities in the brain and nervous system. There are two types of fat: saturated and unsaturated. Unsaturated fats are commonly referred to as "good" fats, and should make up the greatest percentage of your fat intake.
UNSATURATED
• Unsaturated fats, "good fats" are liquid at room temperature, and remain in liquid form even when refrigerated or frozen.
• Good fats are part of the essential fats: omega 3 and omega 6, both of which are unsaturated fats.
What are EPA and DHA?
These are two specific essential fatty acids found in fish oil. Both Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) have been well documented in regulating cellular functions and promoting good health. Diets deficient in EPA and DHA have been associated with a number of health problems, most notably cardiovascular disease.
What is GLA and how is it different from other Omega-6 sources?
GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) is an Omega-6 fatty acid found in high amounts in borage oil, and to a lesser degree in black currant and evening primrose oils. In contrast to the sunflower, safflower and other Omega-6 oils, the presence of GLA in borage oil results in very different physiological effects. Linoleic acid in its current dietary excess promotes inflammation due to the production of arachidonic acid (AA). GLA on the other hand, actually interferes with the production of AA and decreases inflammation. GLA has been used with success in treating various medical conditions, most notably rheumatoid arthritis and eczema. Emerging science also indicates that GLA has synergistic activities with the Omega-3 marine-derived DHA and EPA, particularly in cardiovascular health and fat metabolism.
We all want to be healthy, happy and fit with enough energy for work and for play. A well-balanced diet, exercise, and enough rest go a long way in helping us get the most out of life. And essential fatty acids (EFAs) have been proven to help us achieve healthier and happier lives. These good fats' truly are essential and the majority of us are not consuming enough of the well-researched Omega fats. Now getting the right amount of Omegas to suit your specific health needs is easier than ever.
Where do essential fats come from?
Sources of Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fats:
• Cold Water fish such as Salmon (coho, king and pink), sardines, cod, albacore tuna, trout, halibut , herring. (these fish are also a great source of Omega 6, but are predominantly richer in Omega 3)
• Flaxseeds and green leafy vegetables are great sources of Omega 3.
• Sesame and sunflower seeds and other seeds and nuts are great sources of Omega 6.
• Borage oil and evening primrose oil are rich sources of GLA which is part of the Omega 6 essential fats.
Where do saturated fats come from?
Saturated fats contain large amounts of saturated fatty acids. Saturated fatty acids are named so, because they are "saturated" with hydrogen, meaning they have only single bonds between carbon atoms, leaving no room in their chemical structure for additional hydrogen atoms. Saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature.
Varieties of Saturated fat include: Butter, coconut and palm oils and lard.
Benefits
• aid in balancing the autoimmune system
• treats skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
• cardiovascular health
Chester is a health nutrition consultant and is the owner of www.AstroNutrition.com - a provider of premium health nutrition and sports supplements.
Natural remedies for depression...
Because of the negative side-effects associated with prescription anti-depressants, many people suffering from the symptoms of mild to moderate depression are looking at natural remedies. Several studies over the last seven years have established that there is a link between Omega 3 and depression relief.
In three of these studies involving dietary supplementation of Omega 3 fatty acids, which are found in several food sources including olive oil and especially fish oil, depression was often lifted somewhat after four weeks and greatly relieved after six to eight weeks. The results of studies using both EPA and DHA were more promising than the studies which used either of these two fatty acids alone.
Depression can also be a symptom of a vitamin deficiency, particularly a dietary deficiency of the B-complex, so a multi-vitamin supplement is often also suggested as one of the natural remedies for depression in addition to fish oils.
Other natural remedies and depression relief techniques include a regular exercise program, adequate sleep, meditation and eating a balanced healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables (particularly leafy greens) and fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, herring and sardines.
Fish Oil Depression
One fish that especially naturally high in crucial DHA and EPA is called the Hoki, which is native to the deep waters off of the coast of New Zealand. Hoki is used in some of the highest quality fish oil supplements.
In short, people looking for Omega 3 and depression relief may want to look into fish oils made from Hoki.
Fortunately, in recent years, much more has been written on the subject of natural remedies for depression relief, omega 3 and depression relief and the fish oil depression link. User's Guide to Natural Remedies for Depression by Linda Knittel contains information on easing and preventing depression and advice on when to seek professional help.
Depression can be a very serious mental disorder and anyone suffering from it should seek professional advice from a physician, psychiatrist or psychologist.
These natural remedies and depression medications, although effective for many, can also cause side effects. Supplements of Omega 3 and depression prescriptions are often taken at the same time, but it's never advisable to do so unless you let your doctor know first.
Get more information about Omega 3 and Depression and learn how to choose a high quality fish oil supplement at: Fish Oil Depression
Selecting Home Exercise Equipment That's Right for You
So often people will make the decision to go out to the nearest fitness equipment store or local department store and buy some home exercise equipment. They want to start an exercise program, but don't want to go to the gym for any number of reasons, making exercising at home the best choice.
They will, with the best of intentions, buy a piece or two of equipment based on the recommendation of a friend or family member who swears by their choice. In some cases, they have no idea what they want and just go off without a clue, only to end up buying something based on appearance or a salespersons pitch of the item.
The problem with this is, if the equipment you buy doesn't suit your needs, in the long run, it will end up collecting dust in the closet or become an expensive coat hanger. Almost everyone knows someone who has some kind of exercise device or another that in terms of use is brand new, but they've had the thing for over two years. They probably bought their equipment with every intention to make full use of it, so why didn't they make full use of it?
When setting out to purchase home exercise equipment, there are some things which must be considered very carefully before you go out and drag home something you will be disappointed with. Here are some tips that are paramount to know when considering home exercise equipment.
First of all, are you really committed to exercising on a regular basis? This is probably the single biggest factor. If you are not, you will not benefit from anything you buy.
The second thing is what type of exercise do you want to do? If you are looking to build muscle, buying a stationary bike will be of little value just as if you are looking to build your aerobic capacity, a weight bench and weights will not be the best choice.
Next is how much money do you have or are you willing to spend on exercise equipment? You do get better equipment when you spend more money, but for a smaller investment, you can still get equipment that will get the job done. The key here is to shop around and find the best equipment you can within your budget.
You must next consider how much space is available where the equipment will go? This is an often overlooked but very important point. There must be enough room for your equipment to fit, and there must be room for you to use it to the fullest once it is there. How can you get anything from your equipment if you don't have the room to maneuver around to make use of it after it is set up?
Once you have your equipment in place, a good way to make sure you keep at it is to make yourself accountable by having a fiend ask you every day if you did your routine for that day and to monitor your progress. You can also make it more enjoyable by putting on some music while you exercise or even put a sporting event on your TV to check on while you go at it, whatever the case, just associate it with something you enjoy and it will be much easier to stick with.
If you are considering the purchase of home exercise equipment, these few tips should help you to make the right choice in selecting equipment that you will benefit from for years to come.
About The Author:
Jim O'Neill gives you tons of valuable information on the subjects of weight loss, fitness, and nutrition to make it easy for you to live a healthy lifestyle. Sign up now for his free newsletter at: http://www.mrgymhealth.com
Heart Health with Essential Fatty Acids
Why should I increase my Omega fatty acid intake?
Our intake of essential fatty acids has changed radically in the last century. Our ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 should be close to 1:1, but it is now over 10:1 and up to 20:1. This is due to the addition of corn, sunflower, safflower, sesame and other Omega-6 oils to our food supply. Such excesses are thought by many scientists to be a factor in a number of chronic medical conditions including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, asthma, acne, obesity and depression. It is clear that we need to increase our intake of Omega-3 fatty acids and decrease our intake of Omega-6 (linoleic acid) oils. By doing so we will be, look and feel healthier.
What are good fats and bad fats?
Fat is a concentrated source of energy. This source of energy is very useful during aerobic exercise. The longer the exercise, the higher the fat contribution for providing energy. Fat is particularly used in large quantities in the brain and nervous system. There are two types of fat: saturated and unsaturated. Unsaturated fats are commonly referred to as "good" fats, and should make up the greatest percentage of your fat intake.
UNSATURATED
• Unsaturated fats, "good fats" are liquid at room temperature, and remain in liquid form even when refrigerated or frozen.
• Good fats are part of the essential fats: omega 3 and omega 6, both of which are unsaturated fats.
What are EPA and DHA?
These are two specific essential fatty acids found in fish oil. Both Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) have been well documented in regulating cellular functions and promoting good health. Diets deficient in EPA and DHA have been associated with a number of health problems, most notably cardiovascular disease.
What is GLA and how is it different from other Omega-6 sources?
GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) is an Omega-6 fatty acid found in high amounts in borage oil, and to a lesser degree in black currant and evening primrose oils. In contrast to the sunflower, safflower and other Omega-6 oils, the presence of GLA in borage oil results in very different physiological effects. Linoleic acid in its current dietary excess promotes inflammation due to the production of arachidonic acid (AA). GLA on the other hand, actually interferes with the production of AA and decreases inflammation. GLA has been used with success in treating various medical conditions, most notably rheumatoid arthritis and eczema. Emerging science also indicates that GLA has synergistic activities with the Omega-3 marine-derived DHA and EPA, particularly in cardiovascular health and fat metabolism.
We all want to be healthy, happy and fit with enough energy for work and for play. A well-balanced diet, exercise, and enough rest go a long way in helping us get the most out of life. And essential fatty acids (EFAs) have been proven to help us achieve healthier and happier lives. These good fats' truly are essential and the majority of us are not consuming enough of the well-researched Omega fats. Now getting the right amount of Omegas to suit your specific health needs is easier than ever.
Where do essential fats come from?
Sources of Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fats:
• Cold Water fish such as Salmon (coho, king and pink), sardines, cod, albacore tuna, trout, halibut , herring. (these fish are also a great source of Omega 6, but are predominantly richer in Omega 3)
• Flaxseeds and green leafy vegetables are great sources of Omega 3.
• Sesame and sunflower seeds and other seeds and nuts are great sources of Omega 6.
• Borage oil and evening primrose oil are rich sources of GLA which is part of the Omega 6 essential fats.
Where do saturated fats come from?
Saturated fats contain large amounts of saturated fatty acids. Saturated fatty acids are named so, because they are "saturated" with hydrogen, meaning they have only single bonds between carbon atoms, leaving no room in their chemical structure for additional hydrogen atoms. Saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature.
Varieties of Saturated fat include: Butter, coconut and palm oils and lard.
Benefits
• aid in balancing the autoimmune system
• treats skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
• cardiovascular health
Chester is a health nutrition consultant and is the owner of www.AstroNutrition.com - a provider of premium health nutrition and sports supplements.