The Role of Omega-3 in the izzee Meal
The izzee meal includes flaxseed and chia seeds in its ingredient list, rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3. That's why we considered them essential in our recipe, contributing to one of izzee's many nutritional benefits.
But what is omega-3 after all?
Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid for our bodies, meaning it cannot be produced by our bodies. This means we must obtain it through our diet.
What foods contain omega-3?
Omega-3 can be obtained, for example, through the consumption of fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, and tuna; shellfish; vegetable oils such as flaxseed oil; chia seeds; walnuts; spinach; broccoli and leeks.
What are its benefits?
Some of the benefits of omega-3 are:
- anti-inflammatory properties
- better functioning of the circulatory system and lower cardiovascular risk
- decreased triglyceride levels
- decreased risk of thrombosis
- delay in the formation of cholesterol deposits
- improvement in brain function
In turn, omega-3 deficiency can increase the risk of cardiovascular, neurological, vision and learning difficulties.
Hence the importance of ensuring nutritionally complete meals, like the izzee meal. Because it's not all about protein and carbohydrates. There are many vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and fiber essential to our well-being. And some of them we've often never heard of.
References:
[1] Pnpas. (2020, January 28). Omega 3 • PNPAS. Healthy Eating. https://alimentacaosaudavel.dgs.pt/nutriente/omega-3/