The season of spring is associated with the liver and gallbladder, which govern the muscles, joints, tendons, and ligaments. It is important to support these areas if you are engaging in moderate to heavy exercise, hiking, trail running or in general enjoying the great outdoors. It is the most ideal time to cleanse the liver and support the joints. If you are experiencing muscle pain, joint inflammation or stiffness and weakness in the tendons or ligaments consider supporting these areas with cleansing, dietary changes and nutritional supplements.
To move with greater ease this season, supplement your diet with essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are the ‘good fats’ that we hear so much about. They support various systems in the body including the cardiovascular, reproductive, immune and nervous systems. Its positive effects on the immune system help to regulate inflammation. EFAs are necessary for the human body to manufacture and repair cell membranes, enabling the cells to obtain optimum nutrition and expel harmful waste products. This makes the cell walls supple and flexible thereby improving circulation and oxygen uptake.
EFAs are the necessary fats that humans are not able to synthesize, and must be obtained through the diet. They are long-chained polyunsaturated fatty acids and are found in two families: Omega-3 and Omega-6. Omega-9 is necessary yet ‘non-essential’ because the body can manufacture a limited amount on its own, provided essential EFAs are present. Omega-3 fatty acids are derived from linolenic acid (ALA), Omega-6 from linoleic acid, and Omega-9 from oleic acid. The big deal about EFA’s is that most North Americans are deficient in them, especially Omega-3, due to our over-processed diets. We typically ingest enough Omega-6, in the form of olive oil.
Omega-3 fatty acids also act as anti-inflammatory agents, making them beneficial for individuals with any inflammatory condition. There are 3 major types of omega-3 fatty acids that are ingested in foods and used by the body: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Once eaten, the body converts ALA to EPA and DHA, the two types of omega-3 fatty acids more readily used by the body. Good sources of Omega-3 fatty acids include flaxseed oil (high content of ALA) and fish oil contains the animal forms EPA and DHA.
We often read how beneficial these oils are, however some individuals find it difficult to supplement them as they are often not as palatable in liquid form. In addition, flaxseed oil is typically more beneficial for women, and some individuals are allergic or sensitive to fish oil. A new plant source of Omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid) has recently been made available from the Perilla seed. Perilla seed oil is hypoallergenic and is well tolerated with high bioavailability and is gentle to the taste buds. Regardless of your preference for Omega-3 oils, it is important to take them with food.
While taking Omega-3 oils, you will notice not only positive effects on the joints, but also in the quality of your skin, hair and nails and the regulation of cholesterol levels. Take Omega-3 oils cautiously if you bruise easily, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medication. Consult your health care practitioner before taking nutritional supplements.
