Understanding How Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids Impact Inflammation in the Body

Inflammation is a very dangerous condition in the body that is unfortunately very prevalent in today’s world. Productive inflammation occurs when white blood cells jump to action to protect the body from threats of infection. Though this type of inflammation is essential to keeping the body healthy and removing harmful irritants, pathogens and cells, the majority of inflammation experienced by people today is not the beneficial type. Since more inflammation is often created in response to existing inflammation, it’s common for inflammation to become a self-perpetuating issue that causes other diseases and conditions.

It is possible for the foods that you eat to either minimize unwanted inflammation in the body or trigger even more inflammation. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, for example, can be found in many different foods and need to be carefully balanced in order to prevent additional damaging inflammation within the body.

Omega-3 Fats Fight Inflammation, Omega-6 Fats Trigger It

Omega-3 fats, especially those obtained through fatty, cold-water fish like salmon, are powerful inflammation-fighters. They are vital to the overall health of the body because they support so many essential functions. When the body is nourished with rich sources of omega-3, the benefits include reduced risk of heart disease, minimized anxiety and depression, enhanced cognitive function, less rheumatoid arthritis pain, and so much more!

Omega-6 fats are also important within the body, because they play a crucial role in brain function, skin and hair growth, metabolism, and reproductive system maintenance. However, when the amount of omega-6 fatty acids overwhelms the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in the body – as is very common due to the prevalence of processed foods in modern society – the excess omega-6 acids produce too much inflammation.

All of this means that elevated omega-6 fatty acid intake is associated with an increase in inflammatory diseases like type 2 diabetes, obesity, IBS, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular disease, and more. To prevent these health issues in your own body, simultaneously decrease the quantity of omega-6 fatty acids you eat from vegetable oils in processed foods and increase the quantity of omega-3 fatty acids you receive from salmon and high-quality supplements.  

For more support evaluating and improving your eating and lifestyle habits in order to enhance your overall wellness and quality of life, turn to MindBodySpirit Care in Tampa, Florida. Dr. Shemesh and his team specialize in using holistic and integrative medicine to treat the imbalances that are causing your health problems. Call (813) 935-2273 to make your first appointment now.