Can eating omega-3s reduce stress?

If the economy's ups and downs are making you feel like a bronco-busting rodeo cowboy (every day you're rattled and sore), I have one word to get you through this ride calmer and stronger: omega-3s.

These heart-healthy fats boost brainpower, deter colon cancer, ward off osteoarthritis, protect your vision, and more. But here's what's giving omega-3s top billing for uncertain times: They also reduce inflammation and anxiety.

Why is that such big s? Stress and anxiety are some of today's biggest mind-body agers, and inflammation damages cells in ways that invite all kinds of trouble, from arthritis and cancer to heart disease and stroke. Omega-3s can cut anxiety symptoms by 20% and reduce cytokines (inflammatory proteins) by 14%. Their benefits may be even greater for older folks at greater risk for problems.

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