Omega-3 is a vital supplement that you body needs to be healthy and strong. You hear frequently about the benefits that you receive by taking Omega-3 supplements or by eating foods high in this fat, but how do you know if you’re getting the right amount? Are you getting enough? How can you be sure?

Research has shown that 99% of Americans have Omega-3 deficiencies due to our unhealthy diets. The signs of Omega-3 deficiencies are vague and are usually blamed on another disease or illness so many people are deficient without ever knowing or suspecting it.

Diets based on processed foods with high fat content is characteristic of our society. Omega-3 consumption has decreased by 1/6 of what it was in the 1850s, and we are now eating 1/10th the amount that we need due to our diets that are high in grains and nuts but extremely low in marine foods.

This has been proven when countries like Japan switch from a diet of simple marine foods to our western diet. Within several years of changing to a western fast food diet, their rate of heart disease increased dramatically.

So just what are these signs of deficiency? The most common signs that you are not getting enough Omega-3 are:

Fatigue

Dry, itchy skin

Acne

Brittle nails

Brittle hair that breaks easily

Constipation

Frequent colds

Depression

Poor concentration

Lack of physical endurance

Joint pain

If you have any of the above symptoms, you could have an Omega-3 deficiency. Your body needs the essential fatty acid, Omega-3, for normal function. Most of the time, people will have these signs and symptoms but think they are being caused by something else. The sad part is that by eating foods rich in Omega-3 or taking a supplement, the health problems would clear up.

When you don’t consume enough, your body begins to give you signs, such as the ones listed above, that your system is out of balance. Your body cannot make this nutrient so you must get your required amount by either changing your diet or taking supplements.

To make sure you are getting enough Omega-3, researchers recommend 4 grams per day. Eating foods high in these fats is the best way to get Omega-3. Some of the foods that are good for you are flaxseeds, salmon, marine foods, oils, and walnuts. Just two tablespoons or 4 ounces of salmon are enough to give you 4 grams of Omega-3.

If these foods don’t sound good to you, you need to find a high quality supplement. Choose an organic product that is certified and is refrigerated in a bark brown or green glass jar. When you get your supplement home, continue to keep it refrigerated.

Read the list of signs and symptoms listed above. If you have any of the signs of Omega-3 deficiency, you might want to try improving your diet by including foods that are high in this nutrient or by taking supplements. Discuss with your family doctor the symptoms you are having and get his recommendations.