Nutrition Hints
Omega-3: Across the Board
Omega-3 fatty acids might help to prevent preeclampsia, postpartum
depression, menopausal problems, postmenopausal osteoporosis and
breast cancer, among other benefits.
If there is one supplement all women should take, it's omega-3
fatty acids. [Have you had YOUR cod-liver oil today? Or your wild
fatty fish?] Women in particular gain from an increased intake
of these fatty acids.
High triglyceride levels (which are associated with cardiovascular
disease, especially in women) may be kept under control with omega-3s.
The five million women in this country who are still on hormone
replacement therapy should know that HRT increases triglyceride
levels, so it is especially important for these women to use omega-3
supplementation. [Some women who were on HRT in the past may still
have high triglyceride levels.]
Omega-3 fatty acids are constituents of the membranes of all
cells in your body, and are precursors of hormones.
Omega-3s can facilitate pregnancy in women with infertility problems
by increasing uterine blood flow. Supplementation during pregnancy
lowers the risk of premature birth and can increase the length
of pregnancy and birth weight by altering the balance of certain
nutrients involved in labor and promote fetal growth by improving
placental blood flow. Intake during pregnancy and breast feeding
may even facilitate the child's brain development.
Be sure your supply comes from a reliable source. It's easy for
oils to become rancid quickly.
Source: Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey 2994;59(10):722-730.
These nutrition hints are provided for information only and
should not be construed as medical advice or instruction. No action
or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of these
hints. Please consult your health professional for any matter
relating to your health. Readers who fail to consult with appropriate
health authorities assume the risk of any injuries. The information
and opinions provided are believed to be accurate and sound, based
on our best judgment. The publisher is not responsible for errors
or omissions.
Statements made in these hints have not necessarily been
evaluated by the FDA. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose,
treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
from Betty Kamen, PhD, and Dr. Michael Rosenbaum, MD
Copyright © 2002 by Nutrition Encounter, all rights reserved
www.bettykamen.com
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