Posts tagged with omega-3

As the leaves continue to change and the air turns brisk, we find ourselves entering flu season once again. With the threat of sickness looming, fortifying our defenses is essential. One powerful ally in our battle against the flu is often overlooked: Omega-3 supplements. 

The Omega-3 Advantage 

Immune System Support  Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and trout, are known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a key component of the body's immune response, but it can weaken the immune system when it becomes severe. Omega-3s help regulate this response, enhancing the body’s ability to combat viruses like the flu. Reduced Inflammation Flu symptoms can become worse by excessive inflammation. Omega-3s, in their EPA and DHA forms, play a crucial role in moderating inflammatory processes within the body. By reducing inflammation, Omega-3s can help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery. Enhanced Respiratory Health The respiratory system is particularly vulnerable during flu season. Omega-3s have been shown to benefit lung function and reduce the severity of respiratory conditions. By maintaining healthy lung tissue and function, they create an inhospitable environment for viruses to thrive. Improved Antiviral Response Omega-3s have been found to enhance the production of specialized proteins called cytokines, which regulate the body's immune response. This means that the body is better equipped to launch a robust defense when it detects a virus, potentially shortening the duration and severity of flu symptoms. Mood and Mental Health Boost Flu season can be a trying time, not only physically, but mentally as well. According to Harvard Health Publishing, Omega-3s have been associated with improved mood and mental well-being. They can help stabilize mood swings and reduce symptoms of depression, ensuring you stay resilient during the season. Protection for Vulnerable Populations For those who are more susceptible to severe flu complications, such as the elderly or individuals with pre-existing health conditions, Omega-3 supplements can offer an extra layer of protection. Their immune-boosting properties can help fortify the body against potential threats. 

As we navigate through flu season, arm yourself with the power of Omega-3s. Focus Relief Plus® provides 1620 mg of re-esterified triglyceride (rTG) Omega-3 fatty acids per day with over 90% EPA and DHA, a higher concentration than other leading supplements. It also contains 75 mg of GLA, which when combined with EPA/DHA, can play an important role in reducing inflammation. All of this is provided in a compact and easy-to-swallow softgel! 

Dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions in the United States as it affects millions of Americans every year. Dry eyes occur when tears are not able to provide adequate lubrication for the eyes. This can happen if your glands don’t make enough tears or if your tears dry up too fast.  If left untreated, dry eyes can turn into a chronic condition that causes ongoing discomfort and vision problems.  1. What are the risk factors of dry eyes? Age - People who are over the age of 50 have a higher risk of developing dry eyes, and the risk increases as they get older. This is because the eyes produce fewer tears overall as part of the aging process.  Medications - Certain medicines including antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants can reduce tear production. Gender - Women have an increased risk of dry eyes due to pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal changes. Taking oral birth control pills can also raise the risk of having dry eye conditions. Windy/Dry Climates - Exposure to windy conditions regularly, especially in a dry environment, can cause tears to evaporate quickly. Diet - Eating a diet that is low in vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids has been associated with a higher risk of having dry eyes. Contact Lenses and Surgery - Wearing contact lenses for long periods of time has been associated with an increased chance of having dry eye symptoms.  Refractive eye surgeries, such as LASIK, can decrease tear production and contribute to dry eyes. 2. What are the signs and symptoms of dry eyes? The most common symptoms of dye eyes include the following: A feeling that there is grit in the eyesStinging sensationBurning sensationRed eyesLight sensitivityDiscomfort while wearing contactsTrouble driving at nightMucus around the eyes or in the eyesBlurry visionExcessive wateriness in the eyesEye fatigue3. How can dry eyes be treated? Dry eye symptoms can be caused by a combination of problems, but luckily, they can also be treated with more than one therapy. First, if you’re experiencing any of the dry eye symptoms listed above, see your doctor. Your eye doctor can help you determine the underlying cause of your dry eyes and therefore recommend the best treatment. In most cases, they will begin treatment right away to improve comfort.  Below are some of the most common dry eye treatments: Eye Drops - This is the most common treatment for mild dry eye. Over-the-counter artificial tears can be applied as needed less than 4 times per day, but if your eyes are still bothering you, you may need prescription eye drops that can stimulate tear production.Omega-3 Supplements - Nutritional supplements, such as Focus Relief Plus®, have been the focus of studies on dry eye symptoms and other eye and vision problems. Focus Relief Plus® provides nutrients to help those with mild dry eye symptoms.Tear Duct Plugs -  Punctual plugs are small devices that are inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage in order to increase moisture to help relieve dry eyes. Eyelid Cleansers - Studies show that clean eyelids can help alleviate the symptoms of eye conditions such as blepharitis and dry eyes. Below are two of the most popular types of cleansers to consider:Eyelid Scrubs - Eyelid scrubs are gentle cleansers that soothe inflamed eyelids and can provide relief from dry eye symptoms. Eyelid scrubs that contain tea tree oil, like Focus Eyelid Scrub Formula, can even help kill mites that live in the eyelashes and can cause eye diseases such as Blepharitis. Hypochlorous Acid - Hypochlorous acid occurs naturally in the body. While the chemical neutralizes pathogens, it’s mild enough not to harm the body, unlike most disinfectants. As mentioned before, omega-3 fatty acids are known to play an essential role in the production of healthy tears and are often recommended as part of a treatment plan for occasional dry eye. Focus Relief Plus® provides 1620mg of re-esterified triglyceride (rTG) Omega-3 fatty acids per day with over 90% EPA and DHA, a higher concentration than other leading supplements.