Advertisement
question

What are the health benefits of omega-5?

Ms. Ashley Koff, RD
Ms. Ashley Koff, RD
Nutrition & Dietetics
answer
Omega-5, otherwise known as myristoleic acid, is less common in nature -- found primarily in the seed oil from plants in the Myristicaceae genus where nutmeg is the most well known; the oil is also extracted from saw palmetto. Myristoleic acid extracted from saw palmetto has been shown to effectively combat cancer cells in prostate and pancreatic cancers.

Additionally, omega-5 may play a key role in the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase, a mediator of inflammation, thus, by acting in this anti-inflammatory capacity it helps to promote appropriate inflammation in the body. Food sources of omega-5, beyond extracting myristoleic acid from the aforementioned plants, include the fat of marine animals (wild Alaskan salmon), beavers, and bovines.
Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged

More About this Book

Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged

       From celebrated dietitian Ashley Koff and fitness trainer to the stars Kathy Kaehler comes Mom Energy, an exciting new way for moms to tap into their own natural and renewable sources of...

Continue Learning about Fats

Healthy and unhealthy fats: the ultimate guide
Healthy and unhealthy fats: the ultimate guide
Remember when any fat was considered "bad" fat? When the only difference between a croissant and a Krispy Kreme was snob appeal? Now that (happily) sc...
Read More
How to get more healthy fats into your diet
How to get more healthy fats into your diet
Have you curbed your use of butter and lard, choosing now to brown, sauté, and bake with corn or vegetable oil? Many of us are resting easy in the kno...
Read More
What are the different types of natural fats?
There are three main types of natural fats: saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated.
More Answers
The best (and worst) fats for your body
The best (and worst) fats for your bodyThe best (and worst) fats for your bodyThe best (and worst) fats for your bodyThe best (and worst) fats for your body
Protect your heart health—and much more—by choosing the right fatty foods. If you're looking to adopt a cholesterol-friendly diet, fat isn't a bad wo...
Start Slideshow

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.