Omegas are the “good” fats that are key to good health. It has omega-3, which is an anti-inflammatory that supports the heart, brain, and metabolism, omega-6, which gives the body energy, and omega-9, which reduces bad cholesterol. However, recently there has been increased interest in another group of these fatty acids. Often referred to as the “beauty omega,” omega-7 works at the cellular level to help burn fat. Supports healthy and beautiful skin, hair, and nails. and contributes to our overall health. Here we take a look at these omegas and why you should consider adding them to your supplement routine.
What is Omega 7?
Omega-7s, which are present in most tissues of our bodies (especially fatty tissue in the liver and skin), are monounsaturated fats such as palmitoleic acid, rumenic acid, and vaccenic acid. Many recent studies have confirmed that omega-7s, like omega-3 fatty acids, offer a variety of health benefits. Among the various omega-7s, palmitoleic acid is particularly beneficial as it contains beta-carotene and promotes skin hydration.
Why are omega-7s important?
The list of health benefits of omega-7 fatty acids includes:
- Promotes collagen production, supports healthy skin, nails and hair, and moisturizes the skin.
- It keeps the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, female reproductive system, and mouth hydrated.
- Moisturizes eyes and helps fight dry eye syndrome
- Lowers the level of bad LDL cholesterol and increases the level of good HDL cholesterol
- Supports the cardiovascular system
- Benefits the brain and cognitive function
- aids gastrointestinal health
- Supports healthy metabolism
- Helps burn fat and regulate blood sugar levels
- It has anti-inflammatory properties and can fight chronic inflammation in the elderly.
Where can I get Omega 7?
Foods that contain moderate amounts of omega-7 fatty acids include certain fish such as salmon, herring, and sardines (which are also rich in omega-3). Other foods high in omega-7 include avocados, dairy products, some nuts including macadamia nuts, and some oils such as macadamia nut oil. The richest source of palmitoleic acid is sea buckthorn oil, which is made from the pulp and seeds of the orange fruits of sea buckthorn, a shrub that grows in many parts of Asia and Europe. It has long been used in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Sea buckthorn is a superfood, rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and minerals, as well as omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids. It is also widely used in cosmetics, facial treatments, moisturizers, nail polish, and hair and scalp masks and compresses.
How to ensure you get the right amount of omega-7:
If you don’t regularly eat fatty fish, avocados, or macadamia nuts, the best way to ensure you get an adequate daily intake of omega-7s is to incorporate sea buckthorn oil into your diet. It can be taken orally (1 teaspoon before meals) or used raw as a dressing for salads and other dishes. We recommend choosing organic or cold-pressed oils if possible. Another easy way to add sea buckthorn oil to your diet is to use sea buckthorn oil in capsule or powder supplement form. Loose powder of sea buckthorn is also available to add to smoothies and shakes, but it can be more difficult to find.
What is the recommended daily intake of sea buckthorn oil?
The ideal daily intake of omega-7s has not yet been established, and supplements come in concentrations ranging from 350 to 1,000 milligrams. Research conducted by the Cleveland Clinic and Xyrion Medical Research Institute, reported in the journal clean eatingHowever, they suggest that even doses as low as 210 milligrams per day may provide anti-inflammatory effects and other health benefits.
