Omega-3s as a form of polyunsaturated fat, are healthier alternatives to saturated fat in your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids aids support healthy cell activity in every cell in your body. They are essential component of your cell membranes promoting intercellular communication and offering structure. Omega-3s are essential for every cell in your body, but they are particularly abundant in the cells that make up your eyes and brain.
Benefits of omega-3 in Heart Health:
Lowers Triglycerides: Omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to substantially minimize triglyceride levels, which lowers the risk of heart disease.
Improves Cholesterol: They can lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and raise “good” HDL cholesterol.
Reduces Blood Pressure: In individuals with hypertension, omega-3 fatty acids help relax blood arteries, which lowers blood pressure.
Lowers Arrhythmia Risk: They lower the risk of irregular heartbeats by stabilizing the electrical activity of the heart.
Benefits of Omega -3 in Anti inflammation:
Reduces Autoimmune Disease Symptoms: Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, which is a common feature of autoimmune diseases including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Encourages Post-Exercise Recovery: By reducing inflammation, omega-3 fatty acids may lessen muscle discomfort and hasten recovery.
Helps with Skin Conditions: They help inflammatory skin conditions including psoriasis and eczema.
Sources of Omega -3 for a dialysis patients:
Although foods that are rich in omega -3, relatively contain few amounts of potassium and phosphorus. Hence moderation in consumption can be recommended.
Two best sources for a dialysis friendly can be:
Walnut: Although walnuts contain good source of omega-3 but they also contain moderate amount of potassium and phosphorus. Hence taking 1 to 2 walnuts a day can be considered.
Flaxseeds: Flaxseed is an excellent plant-based source of Omega-3s (ALA) and is moderately low in both potassium and phosphorus. It has no significant levels of these minerals, making it a great choice if you’re limiting them.1 tbsp. of powdered flaxseeds can be used by mixing in any of the curries or in a tea cup size of milk.
Alternative sources of Omega-3s: Since walnuts and flaxseeds are a good source of ALA Omega-3 fatty acids, if you’re concerned about phosphorus or potassium intake, you could consider alternative sources of Omega-3s, like flaxseed oil, chia seeds, or fish oil supplements (if they’re suitable for your diet) under supervision of Dietitian.
KEY TIPS:
Phosphorus binders: These medications can help control how much phosphorus is absorbed from food if you are prescribed them.
Advice from a dietitian: Always consult your health care provider or Dietitan to make sure you’re managing your potassium, phosphorus, and general nutrition while selecting the finest Omega-3 sources.
Risks of omega-3 supplementation:
Risk of Bleeding or Blood thinning:
The blood-thinning qualities of omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, can lessen platelet aggregation, which is the capacity of platelets to group together and form blood clots. Especially when taken in large quantities, this may raise the chance of bleeding and bruises.
Those who:
-Take blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, and clopidogrel) should be concerned about this.
-Possess a bleeding condition, such as haemophilia.
-Are slated for surgery (to lower the risk of bleeding, Omega-3s should normally be stopped at least 1-2 weeks prior to surgery).
Caution: Before using Omega-3 supplements, speak with your doctor if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners.
Gastrointestinal issues:
When taking Omega-3 supplements, some people have gastrointestinal (GI) side effects, such as burping or a fishy aftertaste, diarrhoea, bloating, or indigestion.
To lessen these problems:
-To enhance absorption and digestion, take with food.
-In order to avoid the fishy aftertaste, opt for enteric-coated capsules.
As the day goes on, divide doses into smaller portions.
Possibility of High Consumption of Vitamin A (Cod Liver Oil):
Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A are abundant in cod liver oil. Although omega-3 fatty acids are, too much vitamin A can be harmful and lead to symptoms including headaches, nausea, exhaustion, and even liver damage.
Caution: Watch how much vitamin A you consume overall if you’re using cod liver oil. The recommended daily limit, which is usually 3,000 mcg for adults, should not be exceeded.
Interaction with Additional Drugs:
Numerous medicine classes, such as antihypertensive pharmaceuticals (which may intensify their blood pressure-lowering effects), can interact with omega-3 supplements.
Diabetes drugs may have an impact on blood sugar levels.Immunosuppressive medications (may intensify suppression of the immune system).Before beginning an Omega-3 supplement program, speak with your doctor if you are using any of these medications.
The Best Ways to Take Omega-3 Supplements:
Divide the dosages: To enhance absorption and reduce adverse effects like gastrointestinal distress, split the complete dosage into two or three doses during the day if you’re taking large amounts (for example, for excessive triglycerides).
Consume with food: Taking omega-3s with meals can increase their bioavailability and lessen the chance of stomach distress because they are better absorbed with fat.
K.S.N.Harshitha
Executive Dietitian, Nephroplus