THE MANY WONDERS OF OMEGA-3S
One Little Pill That Can Do Your Body Good
Because fish oil is said to improve everything from heart 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 in multiple ways. The Mayo 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 with moderate 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. 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. Which Omega-3 Supplement Is Right for Me? 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.
HOW TO PREVENT AN INJURY Physical Therapy Can Help You
and your medical history as they plan your treatment sessions.
exercises, they can recover most, if not all, of their movements.
Noninvasive Physical therapy is a noninvasive treatment method that, in certain situations, bypasses the need for surgery. Surgery is costly, often painful, and has the potential to be devastating if the outcome makes the injury or pain worse. For many health problems, such as chronic back pain, physical therapy is proven to be a better treatment than surgery and much more effective than medication. Increased Movement Many Americans are faced with the loss of their mobility, either due to age or a previous injury. When someone is faced with difficulties moving, walking, standing, or other basic movements, physical therapy can improve their mobility. Therapists work with a patient’s body capabilities, and through a series of strengthening and stretching
Managing Diseases If you’re suffering from diabetes, lung, or heart disease, physical therapy can help. Therapists spend years studying how best to help someone with health problems maintain an active lifestyle. They know which treatments and exercises are the best and safest for that individual without overexertion or pushing them too hard. By strengthening your body, inside and out, you drastically reduce your chances of being injured. You don’t have to wait until you’re injured to see a physical therapist — instead, stop it before it ever happens! The therapists at Four Corners Health & Rehabilitation are here to help you take this step to improve your overall health and help you live a pain-free life. Call our offices today to learn more about our programs.
Many people might think that patients only go to a physical therapist if they’ve been injured or are currently recovering from an injury. However, physical therapy can provide you with much more than recuperation. Individuals of all ages who are suffering from chronic pain and serious health problems can also benefit from physical therapy treatments. A Personal Plan When you go to a physical therapy session, you’re giving yourself the means to prevent future injury and increase your health. A physical therapist takes the time to get to know you — they take into account your goals, physical movements,
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