The objective of nutritional supplementation is to supplement the diet (most often not balanced and varied) in order to optimize health. Fats are not only the basic structural component of the brain but have also critical to its functioning, which will be optimal when there is a balance between polyunsaturated fats such omega 6 (linoleic acid) and omega 3 (alpha linolenic acid) . For this balance is maintained, the ratio of omega 6 and omega 3 must be less than 10:1 due to its competitive nature and their different biological functions.
The acid alpha-linolenic (Omega 3) is present in high concentrations in the central nervous system, being essential for development and operation, also present in cell membranes, which gives flexibility in the visual system (eye and particularly in the retina). Because linoleic acid (omega 6) found in most foods, mainly in vegetable oils (sunflower, soybean, corn, sesame, palm, etc.), the overall diet provides too much omega 6, fatty acids are eucosanoides derived from arachidonic acid (AA), which encourage inflammation, to the detriment of eucosanoides derived from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which do not tend to promote inflammation, which is why diets rich in omega 3 fatty acids produce more beneficial eucosanoides less inflammation and therefore reducing the risk chronic disease.
Increased consumption of cold water fish, specifically species that inhabit the deep ocean or mountain streams (salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, trout ) can restore the balance between fatty acids omega 6 and omega 3, but this option carries a risk of toxicity as a result of all harmful substances that can be stored in fish fat (heavy metals, pesticides, toxic chemicals, etc), so that supplementation might be a better and safer alternative to obtain this nutrient. Recommended dose . 1-2 gr / day.
Dr. Iraima Acuña. Nutrition Specialist.