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Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are incorporated
into every cell of the body, and are key
structural, metabolic, and regulatory components
of cells. EFAs must be consumed
through diet as the body is unable to manufacture
them, and without them, we can not
live. They improve and regulate cellular
function, reduce inflammation, modulate
immune response, optimize health and wellbeing,
and help prevent chronic disease.
AIMega™ is an organic seed oil blend that
delivers an important source of healthful and
essential omega-3, -6 and-9 fatty acids.
Essential fatty acids (EFAs)
Just like other essential nutrients, such as vitamins
and minerals obtained through the diet, dietary sources
of essential fatty acids (EFAs) are absolutely necessary
for optimal health and well-being. EFAs (essential fatty
acids) are the main structural component of every cell,
and every cell requires them for healthy cell growth
and division. EFAs keep the membranes of our cells
fluid, and allow entry of important nutrients into the
cells, as well as the removal of toxins (cellular waste).
Additionally, certain EFAs are metabolized into
longer-chain fatty acids which are, in turn, converted
to hormone-like compounds known as eicosanoids,
including a group of mediators called prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins are the critical components that effect
physiologic functions such as cell growth and division,
platelet aggregation (blood clotting), inflammatory
responses, vasoconstriction and vasodilation of blood
vessels, blood pressure, and immune function. EFAs
restore energy, help us digest our foods, transport nutrients
throughout the cells, contribute toward healthy
hormone balance, and help us to maintain healthy
blood lipid levels.
AIMega offers a healthy ratio of omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids
Optimal health and well-being depends upon an
adequate intake of EFAs from healthy fats (monounsaturated
and polyunsaturated). These ‘good
fats’ with their essential fatty acids must
be supplied in the diet as the body is not
able to manufacture them. AIMega™ is
an organic seed oil blend that combines
healthy EFAs from organic flax, sesame,
olive, and sunflower oils, with mediumchain
triglycerides (MCTs) for additional
health benefit. This formula offers a
healthy ratio omega-3, -6, and-9 from
‘good’ sources of polyunsaturated and
monounsaturated fat, providing the daily
nutrition needed to maintain a healthy,
active lifestyle.
Why are EFAs so important?
The inadequate intake of EFAs is one of the most
widespread nutritional deficiencies in the modern diet.
EFAs cannot be made by the body and their availability
is totally dependent upon dietary sources. The body’s
immune system cannot be efficient without EFAs and
the prostaglandins they produce. Without EFAs, continual
and cumulative damage occurs to the cell membranes,
which erodes our health, weakens our immunity,
accelerates aging, and contributes toward disease.
Omega-3 fatty acids in the form of alpha-linolenic
acid (ALA) and the omega-6 fatty acids in the form of
linoleic acid (LA) are critically important for good
health. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids affect
growth, vitality, and mental state. They are involved
in converting food substances into usable energy, and
play a role in cardiovascular health, as well as maintaining
overall health and well-being for virtually
every body system. Consuming these fatty acids
through the diet allows the body to make all the essential
fats it needs to support healthy cellular and
immune function. The omega-9 (oleic fatty acids) are
monounsaturated and not essential to the diet because
the body can make them from other fatty acids,
although they are recommended for overall good
health and to prevent disease.
Flax oil is a good source of omega-3 (ALA)
Flax seed oil is one of the best sources of omega-3
(ALA) essential fatty acids. ALA must be consumed
through the diet as the body is unable to manufacture
it. Flax oil typically contains double the amount of
omega-3 (ALA) found in an equal quantity of fish oil.
(Flax oil contains 50-55% ALA). Flax oil also contains
omega-6 (LA) for good health.
Omega-3 fatty acids are important to promote cardiovascular
health and immune system function, as
well as kidney function, and hormone synthesis. ALA
can help to decrease the risk of arrhythmias, heart
attack, stroke, atherosclerosis, and blood clots; it helps
modulate blood lipid levels, decrease high triglycerides;
and helps decrease high blood pressure. Omega-3 fatty
acids (ALA) can be useful in managing arthritis, as well
as reducing inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid
arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, as well as eczema,
lupus and fibromyalgia.
Strong evidence suggests that ALA has a protective
effect on coronary heart disease. In the 10-year Nurses’
Health Study, the risk of heart attack was reduced by
45% in individuals consuming a high intake of ALA.
The Health Professionals Follow Up Study found a similar
decrease in risk for men who increased their ALA
intake by 1%. Similarly, the National Heart, Lung, and
Blood Institute Family Heart Study found a decreased
risk of up to 70% in women with high intakes of ALA
(0.96 g ALA per day).
Strong scientific evidence also supports the use of
ALA (omega-3) as a protective measure against certain
types of cancer. In one study, it was found that women
with high levels of ALA in their adipose breast tissue
had a 60% lower risk of breast cancer than women with
low levels of ALA. (Eur J Cancer 2000, 36: 335-340).
Additionally, a portion of ALA is metabolized by the
body into the longer-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA
and DHA, and these fatty acids are well-known to support
brain and cognitive function, and are important
for good mental health, especially as we age.
Omega-6 and -9 included for a balanced ratio of good fats
When consuming good fats, we need to ensure that
we are getting the right balance of omega-3 and omega-
6. While there is a wide range of opinion about the
optimal ratios of fat, virtually all experts agree that
North Americans consume too much omega-6 (as well
as omega-9) from hydrogenated oils and processed
foods. In addition to flax oil, which is an excellent
source of omega-3 (also includes omega-6), the
AIMega™ blend includes olive oil, which is a good
source of omega-6 and an excellent source of omega-9.
Omega-6 content from healthy sources, such as olive
oil, is lacking in the average diet. Olive oil has been
found to decrease blood pressure, reduce the risk of
heart attack, decrease high lipids, and reduce the risk of
developing cardiovascular disease. The AIMega™ formula
also includes sunflower and sesame seed oil to further
enhance the optimal ratio of good fats in the diet
for omega-6 and -9.
Signs of fatty acid deficiency:
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Arthritis
Asthma
Attention deficit disorder
Cardiac disorders
Cancer
Dandruff
Depression
Diminished immunity
Dry, cracked skin
Dry eyes
Diabetes
Eczema
Fatigue
High blood pressure
High triglycerides
Hormone imbalance
Hyperactivity
Hypertension
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Inflammatory diseases
Irritability
Kidney disorders
Lupus
Memory loss/disfunction
Poor circulation
Poor wound healing
Rapid heart rate
Retinal/eye problems
Seborrheic dermatitis
Sensory disorders
Signs of aging
Soft nails that break easily
Sterility in men
Thirst
Tingling sensation of the nerves
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Who should take AIMega™ organic seed oil blend?
Individuals who wish to increase their energy, maintain
cellular function, improve cardiovascular and
immune system health, and balance inflammatory
processes in the body can take this balanced blend of
good fats and essential fatty acids.
How is the omega-3 in flax oil different than fish oil?
ALA found in flax oil is the parent fatty acid in the
omega-3 family. A portion of ALA may be converted to
eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic
acid (DHA) which are longer chain omega-3 fatty acids
found in fish oil. On its own, ALA appears to have
unique physiologic benefits apart from its conversion to
EPA and DHA. ALA is especially useful to support
heart health and the immune system. For vegetarians
and individuals who prefer not to take fish oil,
AIMega offers a healthy alternative.
How does ALA decrease risk of heart attack?
Consumption of ALA-rich oils has been found to:
- decrease the tendency of blood platelets to clot
- improve blood flow and circulation (compliance of
blood vessels)
- lower LDL (bad) cholesterol
- reduce atherosclerosis
- decrease inflammation
What are the benefits of consuming monounsaturated
fatty acids and MCTs?
Monounsaturated fats are the healthy fats found in
oils such as olive oil. Along with polyunsaturated fats,
they aid in maintaining a healthy heart and reducing
the risk of high triglycerides, heart attack and stroke. It
is important to have high amounts of monounsaturated
and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet to balance
the high amounts of trans and saturated fats often consumed.
Medium chain triglycerides or MCTs are easily
digested and absorbed fatty acids that are used for energy
and may promote fat-burning (thermogenesis).
MCTs have also been used in various digestive disorders
and as a nutritional support in individuals suffering
from chronic disease. MCTs may complement the beneficial
effects of other fats such as ALA, polyunsaturated
and monounsaturated fats.
Why are rosemary extract and tocotrienols/
tocopherols included in the capsules?
Rosemary extract and tocotrienols/tocopherols are
potent antioxidants which help ensure the stability and
quality of the oil within the capsules. They may also
provide additional health benefits due to their strong
protective and antioxidant activities.
Do vegetarians need more ALA?
Vegetarians’ diets tend to be low in ALA, and total
requirements for omega-3 may be higher for vegetarians
than non-vegetarians. The AI (adequate intake) for
ALA, released by the National Academies in their
Dietary Reference Intakes Report for Energy and
Macronutrients, is 1.6 g for men and 1.1 g for women
per day, aged 19 to > 70 years. Other recommendations
include the US National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Working Group which recommends an AI of 1% of
calories for ALA, and Health Canada, which recommends
an intake of ALA of 0.5% of calories.
Vegetarians may require an intake of ALA in the range
of 1-2% of total calories.
Is there anyone who should not use AIMega™
oil blend capsules?
As with any natural health product, individuals taking
oral medications or blood thinners, or who have
blood clotting disorders or gallbladder disease, should
consult their health care practitioner for specific supplement
recommendations. Additionally, those who
are pregnant or nursing are advised to consult a health
care practitioner.
What other ingredients are in the AIMega™ oil
blend product?
AIMega™ oil blend capsules contain only the active
oil and antioxidant ingredients, along with ingredients
that make up the capsule. The capsule contains gelatin,
glycerin, purified water and carob, a natural coloring
agent. The carob provides a darker shell to the capsule
which protects the softgel capsules against damage
from exposure to light.
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Have questions? Please call us at 1-800-349-1542
All articles and information on this website are for educational purposes only. They are not to be regarded or relied upon as medical advice. The articles and information have not been evaluated by the FDA. Consult your health practitioner if you have health problems.
AIM products are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, mitigate or prevent a disease or illness. Results may vary per person.
This page contains copyrighted materials and/or trademarks of AIM International,Inc. and is reprinted with permission.
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