Campbell Wealth Management - April 2019

The ManyWonders of Omega-3s

One Little Pill That Can Do Your Body Good Cognitive Function Benefits Several studies have concluded that regularly consuming omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain cognitive function. While research shows no cognitive recovery in extremely elderly subjects who already suffer from dementia, evidence indicates that taking fish oil on a regular basis may prevent or postpone the onset of cognitive decline. Omega-3 consumption may also improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from depression or anxiety at any age. WhichOmega-3 Supplement Is Right forMe? If you eat fatty fish several times a week every week, you may already get enough omega-3s, but it can be difficult to get a therapeutic dose of fish oil from food alone on a regular basis. A fish oil supplement can provide additional fatty acids. Look for an ingredient list that specifically shows EPA and DHA; some brands use misleading labeling that only shows the total amount of fish oil rather than the actual omega-3s. Recommendations vary, but most sources indicate that a dosage of 1,000–2,000 milligrams (1–2 grams) of combined EPA and DHA provides benefits. If the smell or “fish burps” bother you, choose enteric-coated capsules, which dissolve in the small intestine rather than the stomach. Omega-3 caps also come in vegan options sourced from seaweed and algae.

At Campbell Wealth Management, health is a pretty big deal. We encourage healthy habits among our team and clients. After all, when you live a healthy lifestyle, you get more out of retirement. That said, a recent study has been making waves on TV and the internet. Published in the scientific journal Stroke (which is published by the American Heart Association), this study looked into the consumption of diet soda. Many people turn to diet soda in an effort to cut sugar out of their diet while still enjoying the bubbly beverages they love. However, despite being sugar-free and zero-calorie, diet sodas are not the healthier option that drink makers would have us believe. The Stroke study looked at a group of about 80,000 women between the ages of 50 and 79. These were women who drank two or more diet beverages per day. The end result of the study was startling. Researchers found a link between the consumption of diet soda and an elevated risk for stroke, heart attack, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and more. Here’s how a few of the numbers broke down: • 23 percent were more likely to have a stroke Because fish oil is said to improve everything fromheart health to chronic dry eye, it may sound a bit like, well, snake oil. But this brilliant little supplement packs a big punch, especially for older adults. Heart Health Benefits The omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) have been shown to support heart health inmultiple ways. TheMayo Clinic cites research suggesting that higher levels of EPA are associated with a reduced risk of congestive heart failure in older adults. Studies also report that people withmoderate to severe hypertension typically see a positive effect on their blood pressure if they regularly take omega-3s. Joint and Eye Benefits Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with osteoarthritis and other joint disorders by lubricating the joints and acting as an anti-inflammatory. As we age, our ability to produce tears diminishes. Fish oil’s lubricating and anti-inflammatory properties also make it a great treatment for and defense against chronic dry eye.

A NEW STUDY LOOKS AT THE LINK Between Diet Soda and Stroke

While these numbers are shocking, especially considering how popular diet drinks are, there are other factors to keep in mind. It isn’t necessarily the diet drinks themselves that are leading to an increased risk of these conditions, but the type of lifestyle.

As the lead author of the study noted, “Many well- meaning people, especially those who are overweight or obese, drink low-calorie sweetened drinks to cut calories in their diet.” Research has shown that people consume more calories overall when they drink diet beverages. They end up eating more, for instance, because they “saved” on calories. To add to all of this, other studies do suggest artificial sweeteners may be harmful to our bodies. While this new study doesn’t confirm that artificial sweeteners are the direct cause of the increased risk of heart attack and stroke, we should take more consideration in the artificial ingredients we consume.

• 31 percent were more likely to have a clot-related stroke • 29 percent were more likely to develop heart disease

2 • CampbellWealth.com

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