Yes, Walnuts Have Omega 3 Oil Benefits

As you may have heard or read somewhere, walnuts have omega 3 fatty acids. They are one of the best plant sources of omega 3, and contain significantly higher amounts of omega 3 compared to other nuts. Walnuts specifically contain the essential fatty acid called alpha-linoleic acid or ALA. This fatty acid can be converted into DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), the two EFAs richly found in fish oil.

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Walnuts are not only rich in omega 3 fatty acids, but are also rich in other nutrients such as dietary fiber, magnesium, B vitamins and antioxidants such as vitamin E. As such, they are considered to be one of the top "super foods" that can promote an overall healthy body.

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Why Are Omega 3 Fatty Acids Important?

There are increasing scientific evidence that show the importance of omega 3 fatty acids for maintaining good health. These are the kind of fats that help protect us from a wide range of health problems. They can support a healthy body's response to high blood pressure, pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol, stroke and heart attack, psychosis, depression, diabetes, and even cancer. Their role in regulating body function is too important that they have been recommended by the American Heart Association and the White House as necessary nutrients you should take everyday.

Walnuts vs. Fish for Omega 3

There is still an on-going debate whether walnuts are a better source for omega 3 than fish oils. Of course, both are excellent sources of the much-needed EFA's, but which one is better than the other? The answer to the question generally depends on who is asking. If you are suffering from conditions such as gout, arthritis and other conditions triggered by high amounts of uric acid, you may well be better off avoiding walnuts (and other nuts and various uric acid laden foods) and opting for fish oil for your omega 3 needs. On the other hand, if you are a vegetarian or a vegan, your preference for walnuts vs. fish source oils may be expected.

As mentioned earlier, ALA can be converted into EPA and DHA once they enter the body. More than ALA, EPA and DHA play significant roles in proper functioning of the mind and heart. The conversion from ALA to the two essential fatty acids is not usually efficient. If you want to optimize the health benefits of omega 3, taking fish oils rich in bio-available fatty acids is still preferable.

The only downside with fish sources vs. plant sources of omega 3 is that fish sourced from polluted seas and oceans may be prone to contamination with heavy metals like mercury and chemicals like PCBs and dioxins. Fish oil supplements are an excellent alternative source of omega 3, but your choice of fish oil supplement brand is crucial. You must choose one that comes from pristine clean waters and healthy fish, and then is processed immediately and with great care.

Walnuts Have Omega 3 But...

Indeed, walnuts have omega 3. They are good sources of omega 3 fatty acids, but they are not the best. Nature has gifted us with much better sources of these essential fatty acids - like that found in fish oils.

Yes, Walnuts Have Omega 3 Oil Benefits

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