Signs of Omega-3 Deficiency

Omega-3 is a type of fatty acid. Our body needs omega-3 as it helps in the proper working of immune, pulmonary, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems. Having an omega-3 deficiency can put you at risk of negative health effects.

Here are some signs which tell you that your body lacks omega-3.

• Skin Problems

Lack of omega-3 fats is first noticeable in skin. Sensitive, dry skin or an unnatural increase in acne can be a sign of omega-3 deficiency. 

Omega-3 is an important part of skin’s fat content and acts a seal to keep moisture and irritants out. It keeps the skin moist. Therefore, dry skin and premature wrinkles can be early signs of deficiency.

• Joint Pain

Omega-3 is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Studies show that taking omega-3 supplements can help in reducing joint pain and increasing grip strength. It may also result in less medication for arthritis symptoms. Therefore, increased joint pain or related arthritic symptoms could be a sign of omega- deficiency.

• Depression

Consumption of omega-3 fats is found to be useful in reducing depression symptoms. Omega-3 is an important component of the neurotransmitter serotonin which improves mood and normalizes the brain’s neural activity.

• Changes In Hair

Changes in hair texture, integrity, and density can be a sign of low omega-3 status. As omega-3 fats help to retain moisture in the skin, they also help in keeping hair healthy. Increased hair loss, thinning of hair and hair getting dry and brittle could be due to a deficiency of omega-3.

• Problems In Eyesight

Eye problems such as dry eyes could be due to low omega-3 intake as it maintains eye moisture and tear production. It can also prevent eye ailments such as macular degeneration and glaucoma.

• Gain In Weight

Omega-3 helps in increasing the metabolic activity of cells. A deficiency of Omega-3 in a person’s diet can lower metabolism and which can potentially result in weight gain.

• Poor Concentration And Problems With Memory

A sign of omega-3 deficiency can be poor concentration and memory problems. Regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acid helps in brain health and vitality. Deficiency of the same results in slowing or stopping the messages sent through the brain.

• Insomnia

Insomnia or trouble while sleeping could be due to low omega-3. A study conducted by the University of Oxford found that people with higher levels of omega-3 experienced better quality sleep.

• Difficult Menstrual Cycle

In women, prolonged and heavy periods with clotting could be due to low intakes of omega-3 in their diet as per some studies.

1.  Heart Problems

Omega-3 is critical for heart health. If you are experiencing heart problems, it can be a result of omega-3 deficiency. It also provides protection against heart disease and helps in controlling harmful cholesterol levels.