"fatty acids" news and stories

According to a story in the New York Times magazine, there might be a connection between a healthy diet and a propensity for violence. Studies have been done in countries including Finland and England, and are underway in Holland and Norway, that showed a decrease in the levels of violent behaviors exhibited by convicts who were given omega-3 fatty acids and other nutritional supplements. The decrease was compared to prisoners who received placebo supplements, or none at all. Apparently, in addition to other health benefits, "Omega-3's foster the growth of neurons in the brain's frontal cortex, the bit of gray matter that controls impulsive behavior." In other words, for people who impulsively committed violent acts, having an increased amount of omega-3-generated neurons blocked those impulses and eliminated many violent behaviors.

The article does, of course, remind readers that there is no miraculous way to eliminate violent behavior - no matter how much fresh fish and spinach people are given. Just like diet alone is not a substitute for exercise on the quest to lose weight, diet alone cannot stop all violent behaviors. But it could help.

[Image NYT]

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Don't wolf down all that omega-3 filled bacon just yet. There is debate among scientists as to whether omega-3 fatty acids are actually good for your heart. For years, nutritionists, doctors and other members of the health and scientific communities have been urging patients to increase the number of supposedly "heart healthy" omega-3 fatty acids in their diet to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. A review of studies in the British Medical Journal showed no strong evidence that increasing the amount of omega-3s in the diet reduced deaths from cardiovascular disease. The finding has not, as yet, been completely confirmed, so doctors are not recommending that patients necessarily reduce their intake of fatty fishes, like mackerel and salmon, but patients should be aware that they may not be helping their heart in the way previously thought. Fish is still considered to be healthy, but it should be included in the diet in moderation, along with exercise and proper nutrition, for maximum health benefits.

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I love oatmeal, but it’s not usually a “food porn”-worthy dish. Like all porridge-y dishes, oatmeal is rather uninspiring to look at, even though it is very healthy and lends itself to almost innumerable variations, including pumpkin pie and chai spices with mango. The presentation of oatmeal at Everybody Likes Sandwiches is just about too good to resist. Her Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal is a delicious mix of oats, cranberries, walnuts and maple syrup, with a splash of vanilla thrown in for good measure. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and walnuts have essential fatty acids that can protect against heart disease, so in addition to looking good, this breakfast will leave you feeling good.

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