When should 3 equal 6?

The time when three should equal six is when you are talking about essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids are polyunsaturated, (if you remember anything from chemistry this might mean something), and are considered essential because if you don’t get them you will die.

These two fatty acids are similar in structure, but act very differently in the body. Omega 6 fatty acids are the predominant fatty acid in the typical American fast food, processed food diet. These fatty acids promote inflammation, blood clotting, and tumor growth and the omega 3 fatty acids promote the opposite.

When you think about it you can see how too many omega 6 fatty acids can have dire consequences on your health. Eating a balance of omega 3 fatty acids to omega 6 fatty acids should cancel the effects of one out with the effects of the other.

There are many scientists out there studying the phenomenon of our country’s increasing incidence of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, premature aging, and some forms of cancer. It is their belief that these incidences are going up because of the high intake of omega 6 fatty acids not being balanced with a higher intake of omega 3 fatty acids.

One of the ways to be sure to increase your intake of omega 3 fatty acids is to take an essential fatty acid supplement. Be sure to get one that has been tested for contaminants. It may be a little more costly up front, but you will have peace of mind knowing the supplement you are taking to help your health isn’t harming it in any way. Also eat more omega 3 fatty acid containing foods!