Discover The Best Essential Fatty Acid Supplements

Essential fatty acids supplements are arguably the most needed dietary supplementation for people in the Western world. The evidence shows that the vast majority of people who live in the West are deficient in these crucial nutrients.

Essential fatty acids are known as polyunsaturated fats -- these are considered "good" fats. They are called essential because they cannot be produced by our bodies and, therefore, we must obtain them from external sources -- the foods we eat, or a quality essential fatty acid supplement.

Essential fatty acids perform numerous vital roles in the body.

They:

• aid in the healthy functioning of cell membranes
• help produce beneficial hormone-like substances called eicosanoids.
• help improve cardiovascular health
• are crucial for optimal brain functioning and health

Essential fatty acid supplements are being taken nowadays to help with certain health conditions. They may help with:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (anti-inflammatory properties).
• skin conditions (dry skin, psoriasis, eczema)
• high blood pressure (hypertension)
• cholesterol
• ....and more

Unfortunately, the typical foods consumed in the Western world are very low in essential fatty acids. Although an essential fatty acids supplement is a good start, try to include more of these foods into your diet:

• walnuts and almonds
• eggs
• flaxseed
• fatty fish from cold, deep waters
• spinach, and dark leafy greens

To get the best source of essential fatty acids, you should turn to purified fish oil supplements. These are the best source for a few reasons.

Essential fatty acids in sources like flaxseed come in ALA form. The body needs to convert the ALA into DHA and EPA essential fatty acids (omega 3 fats). The majority of this conversion does not happen efficiently.

Fatty fish gives you important DHA and EPA directly with no need for conversion.

Fish oil supplements are superior to just eating fish because most fish harbors have contaminants that fish accumulate in their flesh; which are ingested when you eat the fish.

Fish oil supplements that are purified have the beneficial oils separated from the toxins. The oils are then encapsulated and make up a quality essential fatty acids supplement.

Dan Ho is editor of http://www.omega-3-fish-oil-guide.com/Sources_of_Omega_3.html