Omega-3 for Better Sleep

Here's another piece of article highlighting the wonders of omega-3 fatty acids.

Article: Omega-3 consumption linked to better sleep
Link: http://www.thestar.com.my/Lifestyle/Health/2014/03/10/Omega3-consumption-linked-to-better-sleep/

These are the important excerpts:

The study found children who took the daily omega-3 supplements enjoyed 58 minutes more sleep and seven fewer awakenings per night than those who took the placebo. Higher blood levels of the long-chain omega-3 DHA was linked to improved sleep, including “less bedtime resistance, parasomnias and total sleep disturbance”.

“Various substances made within the body from omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids have long been known to play key roles in the regulation of sleep,” said lead study author Professor Paul Montgomery of Oxford University. “For example, lower ratios of DHA have been linked with lower levels of melatonin, and that would fit with our finding that sleep problems are greater in children with lower levels of DHA in their blood.”

Omega-3s are associated with a number of other health benefits, including their ability to lower blood pressure. A study announced last week and published in the American Journal Of Hypertension found omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are as effective, if not more so, in lowering blood pressure than commonly recommended lifestyle changes, such as exercising more, consuming less sodium and drinking less alcohol.

Again, understand your personal needs before taking any drastic change to your diet.