Many experts estimate that approximately 80 percent of the American population does not get sufficient quantities of essential fatty acids in their diets to maintain health (page 1 “the importance of food Oils Versus Bad Fats” Understanding Fats & Oils). And, in fact most Americans are consuming only about 10 percent of the essential fatty acids in their diets that would be needed for optimum health.
However, most orthodox health care practitioners will never make the association between a health problem and an essential fatty acid deficiency because they are not trained in nutrition; because fatty acid deficiencies are not routinely analyzed for in the lab, and because the symptoms of fatty acid deficiency are not as obvious as with many other nutrient deficiencies. Not only this, but few orthodox health professionals understand the issue with enough comprehension to be able to adequately treat the condition, were they to discover it.
The following list of conditions and symptoms are typical of EFA (Essential Fatty Acids) deficiency.
- Aching joints
- Angina
- Arthritis
- Constipation
- Cracked nails
- Depression
- Dry, lifeless hair
- Dry mucous membranes, tear ducts, mouth vagina
- Dry skin
- Fatigue, malaise, lackluster energy
- Forgetfulness
- Frequent colds and sickness
- High blood pressure
- History of cardiovascular disease
- Immune weakness
- Indigestion, gas, bloating
- Lack of endurance
- Lack of motivation
Read on to understand the biology of essential fatty acids, and the reasons why this diverse set of symptoms could be caused by a deficiency in the essential fatty acids.
Certain populations of people in the world have been noted for their abundant essential fatty acid nutritional levels. One example of such people is the population of Iceland, a nation in which fish and fish oil is consumed in abundant amounts. Icelanders are noted for their very low incident of heart disease and high blood pressure and stroke compared to any other nation on earth. Not only this, but Icelanders have a remarkably low incident of infant mortality, and also a remarkably low incident of depression.
All of the health attributes noted in this population can be attributed to the benefit of adequate omega-3 nourishment.
Essential fatty acid, and omega-3 nutrition in particular, is also associated with cancer, joint health, diabetes prevention, and skin replenishment. Mental illness ranging from ADDH to Schizophrenia have been shown to arise in omega-3 deficient individuals.
It is no wonder that some health professionals consider omega-3 oils to be the miracle nutrient of the day. All of the degenerative illness of today will be impacted by essential fatty acid nutrition. The cost to society brought on by the massive nutritional deficiency in essential fatty acids that is suffered by so many persons, and in so many countries is staggering. Unfortunately correcting this situation requires more than just the addition of omega-3 fatty acids to the diet. Education as to how oils interact with one another, and in the body is also needed if the health problems brought on by poor fatty acid levels is to be truly addressed in each person's case.
References:
Gordon, Garry, M.D., D.O., M.D.(H.), Herb Joiner-Bey, N.D.(2004).The Omega-3 Miracle. Freedom Press, Topanga, CA
Murray, T. N.D. and Jade Beutler, R.R.T., R.C.P.,(1996). Understanding Fats & Oils, Progressive Health Publishing, Encinitas, CA.