OMEGA 3-6-9 Fatty Acid – Physicians Nutraceutical Network

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OMEGA 3-6-9 Fatty Acid

Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9are three types of essential fatty acids, which are important components of a healthy diet. Each of these fatty acids plays a different role in the body, and they are collectively referred to as Omega-3-6-9 fatty acids when consumed together. Here's why you need each of them:

Omega-3 fatty acids
The three main types are:
eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA),
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

EPA and DHA are primarily found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. They play a significant role in supporting heart health by reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function, and lowering triglyceride levels. EPA and DHA are also essential for brain health and development, supporting cognitive function and mood regulation.

ALA is found in plant-based sources like flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts. It serves as a precursor to EPA and DHA in the body, but the conversion is relatively inefficient. ALA is still valuable for its anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to overall health.

Omega-6 Fatty Acids:
Omega-6 fatty acids are also essential for the body, but the modern Western diet tends to contain an imbalance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids, which may have negative health implications. Sources of Omega-6 fatty acids include vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds.
Linoleic acid (LA) is the primary Omega-6 fatty acid, and it plays a role in cell structure and function, as well as supporting the immune system. However, excessive intake of Omega-6 relative to Omega-3 can contribute to inflammation and potentially increase the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Omega-9 Fatty Acids: Omega-9 fatty acids are non-essential, meaning the body can produce them on its own. However, they still have health benefits and are found in various foods, especially olive oil and avocados.

Oleic acid is the most common Omega-9 fatty acid and is associated with heart health. It can help lower bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol levels, thereby promoting cardiovascular well-being.

A balanced intake of Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids is essential for overall health. It's important to maintain an appropriate ratio of these fatty acids to promote optimal health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. A diet rich in whole foods, including fish, nuts, seeds, and healthy oils, can help achieve this balance. NeuroAID Ultrahelps to insure that the user receives enough of all three types in the proper balanceat therapeutic dosages.

It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian. They can evaluate your specific circumstances, consider any underlying medical conditions or medications you may be taking, and provide personalized advice on dosage and potential risks. They will be able to guide you based on your individual health needs and ensure your safety.

Bear in mind that not all medical professionals are convinced of the benefits of nutritional supplementation, and we strongly recommend consultation with MDs who are also Naturopathic Practitioners, as well as Chiropractors and other medical professionals who are trained in the therapeutic uses and methodology of supplementation.

What are the medical contraindications for Omega 3-6-9 Fatty Acid supplementation?

Some of the medical contraindications for Omega 3-6-9 fatty acid supplementation include:

Bleeding Disorders: Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, may have anticoagulant properties and can slightly reduce blood clotting. Therefore, individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications should use Omega-3 supplements with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Allergies: Some people may be allergic to certain sources of Omega-3 or Omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil or nuts. If you have a known allergy to any of these sources, it's best to avoid supplementation and choose alternative sources.
Surgery: Omega-3 fatty acids can influence blood clotting, so it's essential to discontinue Omega-3 supplementation a few weeks before scheduled surgeries to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during the procedure.
Prostate Cancer: There is some concern that high doses of Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of aggressive prostate cancer in men. However, more research is needed to establish a definitive link, and current evidence is inconclusive.
Fish Allergy or Fishy Aftertaste: Some Omega-3 supplements, particularly fish oil capsules, may cause a fishy aftertaste or gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals. If you experience such side effects, consider alternative sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, like plant-based ALA supplements.
Interaction with Medications: Omega-3-6-9 supplements may interact with certain medications, including blood-thinning medications, blood pressure drugs, and some anti-inflammatory drugs. If you are taking any medications, consult with a healthcare professional before starting Omega 3-6-9 supplementation.

What medications interact badly with Omega-3-6-9 supplements ?

Some of the medications that may have adverse interactions with Omega-3-6-9 supplements include:

Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Medications: Omega-3 fatty acids can slightly reduce blood clotting. Taking Omega-3-6-9 supplements alongside anticoagulant drugs like warfarin, heparin, enoxaparin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or antiplatelet medications like aspirin, clopidogrel, or ticagrelor, may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Combining Omega-3-6-9 supplements with NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, or diclofenac may increase the risk of bleeding, especially in individuals already at risk for bleeding disorders or stomach ulcers.
Blood Pressure Medications: Omega-3 fatty acids may slightly lower blood pressure. Combining Omega-3-6-9 supplements with blood pressure medications like ACE inhibitors (lisinopril, enalapril), beta-blockers (atenolol, metoprolol), calcium channel blockers (amlodipine, verapamil), or diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide) may lead to an additional decrease in blood pressure, potentially causing hypotension (low blood pressure).
Immunosuppressant Drugs: Omega-3 fatty acids may have mild immunomodulatory effects. If you are taking immunosuppressant medications like cyclosporine, tacrolimus, azathioprine, or methotrexate, combining them with Omega-3-6-9 supplements may affect immune function and may require monitoring by a healthcare professional.
Cholesterol-Lowering Medications: Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, may have a mild cholesterol-lowering effect. Combining Omega-3-6-9 supplements with cholesterol-lowering medications such as statins (atorvastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin) may lead to a more significant reduction in cholesterol levels. This interaction may be beneficial for some individuals but should be monitored by a healthcare professional to avoid excessive cholesterol lowering.
Diabetes Medications: Omega-3 fatty acids may influence blood sugar levels. Combining Omega-3-6-9 supplements with diabetes medications like metformin, insulin, glipizide, or sitagliptin may affect blood glucose levels, requiring close monitoring.
Herbal Supplements and Blood Thinners: Some herbal supplements, like garlic, ginkgo biloba, ginger, and turmeric, have mild blood-thinning properties. Combining these with Omega-3-6-9 supplements may increase the risk of bleeding.

It's important to note that the interactions mentioned above are not an exhaustive list, and other medications or individual factors may also play a role in potential interactions.