Sea Buckthorn, rich in omega-7, is a little-known superfood that often surpasses the famous omega-3 and omega-6. These essential fatty acids are crucial for improving cardiovascular health, hydrating the skin and reducing inflammation, offering a range of benefits for your overall well-being.
What are the benefits of omega-7?
Let’s take a quick look at the benefits of the fatty acids found in sea buckthorn:
- Cardiovascular health: Omega-7s reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL), improving heart health.
- Skin and mucous membranes: They maintain hydration, improve skin elasticity and reduce skin inflammation. They also relieve dry eyes and mouth.
- Lipid metabolism: They regulate fat metabolism, helping to prevent excessive accumulation of body fat.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Omega-7 reduces inflammation, helping to prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes and metabolic disorders.
How can you incorporate omega-7s into your diet?
Food supplements are a practical and effective way of increasing your omega-7 intake, especially if your diet does not contain enough foods rich in these fatty acids. Supplements based onsea buckthorn oil are particularly popular because of their high concentration of palmitoleic acid. When choosing a supplement, it’s crucial to check the quality and purity of the product. Opt for supplements that have been certified and tested by third parties to ensure that they contain no undesirable contaminants or additives.
Macadamia oil supplements are also available and can be a viable alternative. It is advisable to follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dose for your individual needs.
What foods are rich in omega 7?
Incorporating omega-7-rich foods into your daily diet is another way to enjoy the benefits of omega-7s without resorting to dietary supplements. Here are some of the best food sources of omega 7:
- Sea buckthorn berries: These berries are one of the most concentrated sources of omega 7. They can be eaten fresh, in juice form, or added to smoothies and desserts.
- Macadamia oil: This oil is rich in omega 7 and can be used for cooking or as an ingredient in salads. It also has cardiovascular health benefits and can help improve lipid profiles.
- Oily fish: Some fish, such as anchovies and sardines, contain significant amounts of omega 7 in addition to omega 3, offering a double health benefit.
- Milk and dairy products: Dairy products, particularly those from grass-fed cows, contain vaccenic acid, a precursor of palmitoleic acid.
Incorporating these foods into your diet on a regular basis can help maintain a sufficient intake of omega 7s, thereby promoting various aspects of your health.
How should I take an omega 7 supplement?
The recommended dosage of Omega 7 can vary depending on a number of factors, including age, gender, general health and specific health goals. However, a daily dose of 210 mg to 420 mg of palmitoleic acid is often suggested to reap the full benefits without the risk of adverse effects. This recommendation can be achieved by a combination of food supplements and natural food sources.
It is essential not to exceed the recommended dosage without medical advice, as over-consumption can lead to side effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Precautions and side effects
Sea Buckthorn is generally considered safe for internal and external use and has few side effects. However, a small percentage of people may experience adverse reactions when taking Sea Buckthorn. It is essential to monitor any unusual reactions and to consult a health professional if any worrying symptoms occur.
Drug interactions
Sea Buckthorn supplements may interact with certain drugs, particularly those used to manage blood pressure and blood clotting. Regular use of Sea Buckthorn could result in an anticoagulant effect, increasing the risk of bleeding or clotting problems. It is crucial to discuss the use of Sea Buckthorn with a doctor if you are taking medication affecting blood coagulation or blood pressure.
Allergic sensitivity
People who are sensitive to theSea Buckthorn plant may experience undesirable side effects when using this supplement. Known allergies to the Elaeagnaceae family of plants may also indicate an allergy to Sea Buckthorn. If you have similar allergies, it is best to avoid the fruit, oil, juice or any other component of this species to prevent allergic reactions.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding
It has not been established whether pregnant or breast-feeding women may experience adverse effects on themselves or their developing child when using Sea Buckthorn supplements. As a precautionary measure, it is advisable to avoid using this supplement during pregnancy and while breast-feeding until you have consulted a doctor.