Omega 3 fatty acids

"Omega 3-fatty acids are derived primarily from coldwater fish. When the diet consists of a high proportion of these oils the generation of arachidonic acid is significantly reduced, thereby reducing the generation of 'bad' eicosanoids. Experimental animal and human studies have both demonstrated a significant reduction in blood coagulation and, hence, the incidence of both strokes and heart attacks.

"We know that cell membranes are critical in receptor function, ion exchange, enzyme function, and nutrient entry into the cell. With aging, the cell membranes lose some of their fluidity. It is also known that dietary omega 3-fatty acid can change the composition of the cell membranes in a short period of time so that the major component of the membrane lipids are then comprised of the two types of oils found in fish oils, mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These particular oils inhibit the production of arachidonic acid within the cell membrane. It is the activation and release of arachidonic acid from the cell membrane that triggers the production of eicosanoids, resulting in the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Many of these products are quite toxic to cells and can generate massive amounts of free radicals, leading to damage to the cell's membranes as well as its genetic structure. As we have seen, this process plays a critical role in glutamate toxicity. The bottom line is that omega 3-fatty acids (fish oils) can block the production of "bad" type ecosanoids.

"Other studies have shown that feeding omega 3-fatty acids to animals can significantly improve nerve conduction within the optic nerve. While no one has measured it, one could safely assume that neural conduction within other parts of the nervous system would improve as well. It is important to buy only quality products free of pesticide residues and mercury. Some brands have high concentration so of omega 3-fatty acids and should be preferred. Another warning, always keep your capsules in the refrigerator. Omega 3-fatty acids are unsaturated and subject to rancid destruction. Because of this, I would recommend taking at least 400iu of alpha-tocopherol per day with your capsules." -(Dr. Russell Blaylock, M.D., in his book Excitotoxins p230)

Omega 3-fatty acids are so important, it may be necessary to use fish oil supplements, but keep fish oil capsules in the fridge!