Omega-3 fatty acids are “good fats” that are not produced
by your body, they are found in the membranes of every
cell in your body and help to ensure that each cell
functions efficiently and is equipped to do its job.
According to the FDA, Omega-3 fatty acids are an important
preventive step in the fight against heart disease. The
FDA now allows food companies to make heart-healthy claims
on their products that contain fish oils. Fatty acids are
essential nutrients that can also prevent damage to the
nerve cells that promote brain and vision development, and
help regulate the reproductive, immune and nervous
systems.
Studies show that a deficiency of Omega-3’s can lead to
many skin problems such as:
• Premature wrinkles
• Eczema
• Dry skin
• Dandruff
• Cracked skin on heels and fingertips, along with brittle
or soft nails
• “Alligator skin” or “chicken skin” on the backs of arms
How do Omega 3’s keep your skin looking
young and healthy?
Free radicals damage cell membranes and
trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals which in
turn damages the skin’s collagen. The result is a wrinkle
where the collagen was lost. Omega 3’s can lessen this
inflammatory response and prevent collagen breakdown and
wrinkle formation in the skin.
How can you reap the rewards of such a
powerful nutrient?
The richest dietary source of Omega-3
Fatty Acids are found in oil-rich cold-water fish like
salmon, mackerel, herring, fresh tuna (not canned) and
sardines; but the average American diet doesn’t contain
nearly enough of these important fish oils. Experts
recommended at least two meals per week of cold-water
fish, or a supplement with a minimum 1000mg per day.
Vegetarians and vegans can get their Omega-3 from sources
such as flaxseed (linseed) oil and walnuts or walnut oil.
Leighia Willis, RPh, is a full-time pharmacist in New York
City who pens the seasonal column, “Ask the Pharmacist,”
for the Beautiful Skin newsletter that is sent to readers
across the country. Willis enjoys educating her pharmacy
clients and patients about prescriptions and
over-the-counter products such as vitamins, topical
products, cosmeceuticals, and herbal supplements. An avid
Central Park jogger, dog lover, and sports fan, Willis,
like you, is searching for the fountain of youth through
great skincare products! If you have any skin care
questions for “Ask the Pharmacist,” please email:
pharmacist@softyoungskin.com.
