Fish oils, also known as marine oils, are essential fatty acids (lipids) found in fish, particularly cold water fish, and other marine life such as phytoplankton. These oils are rich sources of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) of the n-3 (omega-3) type. The two most studied fish oil fatty acids are the 20 carbon eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and the 22-carbon docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Following ingestion EPA and DHA are transported by the circulatory system to various tissues of the body where they are used mainly for the synthesis of phospholipids. These phopholipids in turn are incorporated into the cell membranes of blood platelets, blood cells and central nervous system cells, as well as many others. DHA, in particular, is a vital component of the phospholipids which make up the cellular membranes of the brain and retina.
Thirty-five percent of all Americans will develop diabetes, which can cause heart attacks, strokes, blindness, deafness, impotence, amputations, kidney failure and sudden death. Three studies show why virtually all diabetics should exercise. The first study shows that exercising before a meal markedly reduces the rise in blood sugar that usually peaks 20 minutes after you eat (Lipids in Health & Disease, October 2005). The second shows that exercise lowers HBA1C in diabetics (Journal of Obesity, October 2002), while the third shows that exercise lowers high blood pressure (Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, August 2005)
Cancer is the second leading cause of death among all people in the United States. This year (2007), in the United States roughly 1.4 million people will be diagnosed with cancer, and about 40% of that number, 570,000, will die of cancer. The statistics are disturbing because cancer is indiscriminate. Although there are certain factors, such as smoking, pollution, and genetic predisposition, which increase an individual’s risk of getting caner, everyone, even the healthiest person, is at risk. Much progress has been made in understanding, preventing, and eliminating cancer, but a general "cure" is not in sight.
One hundred years ago, type II diabetes was the 100th most common disease. Today it is the 3rd most common disease. Diabetes is truly a modern disease, caused by unnaturally refined foods, lack of exercise, a poor understanding of nutrition and some genetic factors. The good news is that diabetes is preventable and manageable through diet and exercise.
The human body needs a consistent supply of certain essential nutrients in order to function properly and survive. A lack of just one essential nutrient can lead to malnutrition, a sickness, which can, in severe cases, cause death or do irreversible damage. Essential nutrients are organized in six groups: Carbohydrates, Protein, Fats and Oils, Vitamins, Minerals, and Water.
The daily rigors of work, such as tight deadlines and long hours, can lead to job burnout, a state scientists are beginning to link with serious ailments.
Studies have shown that workplace stress can lead to an increase in rates of heart disease, flu virus, metabolic syndrome and high blood pressure. One study found that stress can negate the heart-healthy aspects of a physically active job, leading to thicker arteries in physically active and stressed workers compared with active, non-stressed employees.