"fatty" news and stories

The other day, Andrew posted on a BBC story about UK schools considering using Omega-3 supplements to improve students' behavior and performance. The BBC article cites a year old study, and now The Daily Mail reports on more recent findings that show fish oil to be more effective than Ritalin in treating children with ADHD. Groups of seven- to 12-year-olds were given six capsules of fish oil daily over the course of several months. By the end of a seven month period, researchers found that nearly half of the group showed better concentration and performance in school. Researchers also compared the results to studies done with Ritalin and Concerta and found fish oils to be more effective, the Daily Mail reported. The results of the study are to be published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics.

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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