Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1489985
www.AbbysHealthFood.com | # 54| Page 25 from our fat cells, we will now look at the scientific studies that have analyzed the connection between cortisol levels and omega-3 status. DO THOSE WITH HIGHER CORTISOL LEVELS HAVE LOWER OMEGA-3S? Some studies have shown that individuals with certain stress-related conditions tend to have higher levels of cortisol and lower blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids. However, it's important to note that measuring cortisol levels in scientific studies remains challenging and larger studies are needed to confirm the relationship between cortisol and blood levels of the omega-3s. CAN CORTISOL BE LOWERED BY OMEGA-3 FATTY ACID SUPPLEMENTATION? While being stressed out tends to cause increases in cortisol concentrations (which may lower omega-3 levels), having a low omega-3 status may also increase cortisol levels. This is because a low omega-3 status can lead to increased production of certain proteins known to activate the stress response and increase cortisol production. Fortunately, some trials have shown that omega-3 supplements may reduce cortisol levels. Once again, larger repeatable trials are necessary before making any hard conclusions that omega-3 supplements might lower cortisol levels. ARE OMEGA-3 SUPPLEMENTS EFFECTIVE FOR MANAGING STRESS? Omega-3 supplementation has been shown to reduce acute- phase proteins and lower the anxiety scores of healthy medical students who regularly faced stressful exams. Another trial showed that fish oil supplementation helped decrease feelings of anxiety in those who experienced a recent heart attack. Future research is needed to confirm if omega-3 supplements are effective at reducing stress levels and to identify what it is about omega-3s that appears to provide a calming effect. CONCLUSION According to recent research, Americans report feeling stressed out significantly more than the global average, and this may have implications for our overall health and omega-3 levels. Simply stated, the more stress that you have, the more your omega-3 stores may become depleted. And the more depleted your omega-3 stores become, the more acute-phase proteins your body produces, and the more activated your stress response becomes. Put even more simply; low omega-3 levels can lead to greater stress, which can lead to lower omega-3 levels (and so on, and so forth). Are you getting enough? Email to WIN a $25 GIFT CARD EMAIL US at: AbbysMag@gmail.com 1. What article/story you liked best in this edition FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $25 GIFT CARD! 2. What is your favorite Vitamin/Supplement Co.? OUR NEWEST WINNER: Anna M.