Omega 3, 6 and 9
There are two types of fats LDL and HDL. LDL stands for low- density lipoprotein, and HDL is high-density lipoprotein. LDL is also called as the “bad” cholesterol because high levels LDL lead to buildup of cholesterol in the arteries. On the other hand, HDL is called the good” cholesterol because it carries cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver, thereby getting rid of excessive cholesterol.
Omega 3:
Omega 3 is considered the holy grail of brain/neurological development of children. On top of this, Omega 3 is known to help with anxiety and depression, eyesight development and child’s overall health. They may also aid sleep quality and reduce symptoms of ADHD and asthma.
Adults and children likewise cannot produce omega 3 and 6 and hence must be supplied in the food.
Growing children need omega 3 oils for proper brain function. Omega 3 is found in fish oil and flaxseed oil along with many other foods. It is a unsaturated fat.
Source of Omega 3:
Fish oil, hemp oil, flaxseed oil, salmon, tuna, walnuts, sardines, anchovies, salmon, sardines, sesame seeds, omega 3 eggs
Omega 6:
Just like Omega 3, Omega 6 is a also unsaturated fats that must be obtained from foods as human bodies cannot produce them. The biggest difference between the Omega 3 and 6 is that while children are not getting enough Omega 3, they are getting too much Omega 6.
Source of Omega 6:
Corn, safflower oil, sunflower oil, meat, eggs, nuts and seeds, poultry, soybeans, fish and seeds.
Too much Omega 6, not enough Omega 3:
Omega 6 is found in many oils including vegetable oils, including corn, sunflower, canola, evening primrose seed, safflower, and soybean oils. They are also present in sunflower seeds, meats, poultry, fish, eggs and seeds. Omega 6 is abundant while Omega 3 is not so much.
Omega 9
Omega 9 are unsaturated fatty acids, just like Omega 3 and 6. Studies have shown that Omega 9 increase HDL, the good cholesterol and decrease LDL, the bad cholesterol in the bodies. They help eliminate plaque build up in the arteries which are responsible for strokes and heart attacks.
Source of Omega 9:
Cashew nut oil, Olive oil, Almond oil, Avocado oil, almonds, cashews, walnuts and peanut oil
