You could be Omega 3 deficient

If you get mood swings, have dry flaky hair and skin and brittle nails, it could be that you are lacking fatty acid- Omega 3. The mineral is important to both children and adults and helps in brain development for the unborn child and may protect a mother from going into preterm labour.

Since Omega-3 cannot be produced by our bodies, it is got through food and maybe supplements according to Jamiiru Mpiima, a nutritionist at Victoria University Wellness Centre.
He says, “Unlike the unsaturated fats, Omega-3 fatty acid is an essential fatty acid needed for proper functioning of the body and have an anti-inflammatory effect. The effect helps in warding off several inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, asthma, cancer, heart disease and diabetes.”

Omega-3 deficiency will cause symptoms such as dry skin and hair and soft or brittle nails, rough patches of skin, small bumps on the back of upper arms and legs, dandruff, dry eyes.
“Your skin often shows the first symptoms of omega 3 deficiency and not even the moisturising creams will be able to fix the problem. This could be the reason your skin is not even and has rough skin patches,” he says.
You may also develop attention and concentration problems, mood related signs such as irritability such as mood swings, emotional outburst as well as energy and sleep related problems such as fatigue and poor sleep quality.
Health benefits

Many women endure abdominal discomfort and cramps every month caused by strong contractions of the uterus. These are caused by a deficiency of the omega 3 fat and once it is incorporated in the diet, it can help to soothe this menstrual pain.
Mpiima says, “One of the most well-known benefits of omega-3 is the way it positively affects risk factors associated with heart disease. This is because it keeps the arteries clear preventing plaque buildup responsible for hardening and restriction of the arteries.”

Omega-3 fatty acids also protect your body system from inflammation. Once consumed daily, the anti-inflammatory properties in the fatty acid give your body ability to fight disease such as diabetes, arthritis and reduces the risk of rectal and breast cancers.
The fatty acid is important for eye health. Daily intake can prevent common eye ailments such as age- related macular degeneration, dry eye syndrome and glaucoma. Foods such as eggs, soybeans, soursop, chia and sesame seeds, spinach, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, fish, dairy products and olive oil are rich sources of omega 3.