Omega-9 information, FAQ and product listing page. This page contains everything you need to know about omega-9!

What is omega-9 and what does it do?

Omega-9 fatty acid is a monounsaturated fat that is also known as oleic acid. It is not considered an essential fatty acid because of our body’s ability to produce it in small amounts. However, this can only happen if the essential fatty acids (EFAs) omega-3 and omega-6 are present – if the body is low on one of these EFAs it cannot produce enough omega-9. In this instance, omega-9 transforms into an essential fatty acid because of the body’s inability to produce it.

While omega-9 is crucial to the body, it plays a much smaller role than the essential fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6. Primarily, omega-9 has a positive health affect on the lowering of cholesterol levels and promotes healthy inflammation responses within the body. Other major health benefits of omega-9 include the reduction of the arteries, reduction of insulin resistance, improvement of immune function, and provides protection against certain types of cancer.

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What foods contain omega-9?

The best food source for omega-9 is olive oil. Alternative sources include:

  • Olives
  • Avocados
  • Almonds
  • Peanuts
  • Sesame oil
  • Pecans
  • Pistachio nuts
  • Cashews
  • Hazelnuts
  • Macadamia nuts

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What is the suggested daily intake of omega-9?

In adults, one or two tablespoons of extra virgin oil per day provides enough oleic acid for adults.

It should be known though that consuming omega-9 gradually throughout the day (much like time-released supplements) is much more beneficial to the body than consuming the entire daily amount through a single dosage.

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What are the symptoms of omega-9 deficiency?

Each EFA (3, 6, 9) share a symbiotic bond that requires each other to operate to their fullest potential and to provide the body with most positive health effects as possible. A lack of omega-9 in the body can have a detrimental effect that the benefits the other omega fatty acids provide.

Signs of omega-9 deficiency can include:

  • Eczema-like skin eruptions
  • Bumps on the back of upper arms
  • Cracking/peeling fingertips
  • Dandruff
  • Hair loss
  • Behavioral changes
  • Dry glands
  • Male sterility
  • Growth retardation
  • Dry skin
  • Dry Eyes
  • Miscarriage
  • Irregular heart beat
  • Craving of fatty foods
  • Stiff or painful joints

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Who can benefit from using supplements containing omega-9?

Because of the expansive list of benefits of the entire omega fatty acid group provides to our bodies, every healthy adult should consume omega-9. The omega fatty acid group can help prevent and combat many common illnesses and health problems. These include countless conditions, like anorexia, ADHD, diabetes, eye disease, osteoporosis, menopausal symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, acne, eczema, alcoholism, allergies, arthritis, cancer, weight loss, high blood pressure, heart disease, tuberculosis, and ulcers.

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Does omega-9 have any side effects?

While omega-3 and omega-6 have some (rare) reported side effects, omega-9 has none. However, be cautious if you are using anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs due to an increased risk of bleeding.

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References:

Sources used:Burr, G.O., Burr, M.M. and Miller, E. (1930). "On the nature and role of the fatty acids essential in nutrition". J. Biol. Chem. 86 (587). Retrieved on 2007-01-17.Enig, M (2001), Know Your Fats: The Complete Primer for Understanding the Nutrition of Fats, Oils and Cholesterol (First Edition ed.), Silver Spring, MD: Bethesda Press, ISBN 0-9678126-0-7