Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for your body. If you maintain a healthy and balanced diet you can meet your requirements. But what happens if you take too few?
These polyunsaturated fatty acids are important for the functioning of the metabolism, but when foods that provide the necessary amount of omega-3 are not consumed, your body can send different signals.
Omega-3s are found in foods such as fish, some seaweed, flax oil, chia, and even walnuts. This fatty acid is not only important in regulating the level of cholesterol in the blood, but it is also able to contribute to the functioning of the brain, heart and vision.
Low levels of omega-3 may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, rheumatism and depression, so it is important to detect early symptoms of deficiency.
Here’re 8 symptoms of Omega-3 deficiency.
Inner restlessness and depression
Omega-3 can increase the release of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which improves mood and normalizes neuronal activity in the brain.
In addition, several scientific studies have shown that this fatty acid can even reduce the inflammatory state of the brain.
Vision problems
Dry or inflamed eyes and other alterations can be the product of a lack of omega-3s in the body, so it is best to consult a doctor.
Difficult to focus
Although concentration problems can be caused by different causes, it should not be forgotten that one of them is nutritional deficiencies, including omega-3s.
Fatigue and tiredness
Constant tiredness and even difficulty falling asleep can be the result of a lack of nutrients, especially iron and omega-3 fatty acids.
Dry Skin
The lack of omega-3 can also be reflected in the cells of the skin, since these fatty acids keep it hydrated and healthy, so premature wrinkles can be a sign of deficiency.
Joint pain
By acting as a powerful natural anti-inflammatory, omega-3 can reduce the sensitivity of the joints, decreasing their stiffness.
Muscle weakness
Muscle hypotonia or myasthenia, are muscle weaknesses that can occur due to the deficiency of these fatty acids.
Weight gain
By having a positive effect on metabolism, a lack of omega-3s can have the opposite effect by slowing it down and leading to weight gain.
It is necessary to take into account that several of these symptoms can be caused by other causes, that is why it is important to consult a doctor about the factors that led to these symptoms and also to determine through an analysis if the body actually suffers from an omega-3 deficiency.
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