Normally, people associate omega fatty acids with the omega-3 fatty acids found in food. Omega-7 fatty acids are in food too, and recent research has turned health-conscious consumers on to the buzz. If you’re looking for omega-7 fatty acids with potential, you’re in luck. Below, we’re covering the foods and substances that have the most omega-7 fatty acids, but before that, we’re going to give you the benefits of this rather amazing nutrient.
Long used in Eastern medicine, it has been known to provide numerous benefits. Your hair, nails and skin will definitely start to shine, glow, and become stronger, respectively. This is one of the most popular uses of omega-7s, as well as their ability to prevent premature aging.
It has also come to light that omega-7s can help strengthen cardiovascular health by maintaining health cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well as smooth the walls of arteries to improve blood flow.
In addition to these, studies have shown that these fatty acids can improve the health of the complex web of mucous membranes that run throughout the body. Unhealthy membranes have been linked to quite a few digestive health issues, so this is a major bonus. If you want to experience these benefits, you’ll need to start including more of the foods below in your diet.
Avocados
Despite looking like a vegetable, the avocado is actually a fruit. It has quite a lot of omega-7 content in it, and can be used in a variety of recipes. Often seen in dips, salads, and acai bowls (which are all the rage right now), avocados are high in a slew of unsaturated fatty acids. Alongside your omega-7 fatty acids, you’ll also get a healthy dose of linoleic acid and oleic acid.
Egg Yolks
Egg yolks are perfect for baking. A single, large egg has about 17g of egg yolk at only 66 calories. They also have a high omega-7 fatty acid content, making them incredibly nutritious foods. Compared to egg whites, yolks may be high in cholesterol. Despite this, they’re great alternatives to egg whites for those seeking the benefits of omega-7s.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is delicious, and it’s also healthy. The blue mold involved in the maturation process is certainly tasty. A lot of blue cheese types are available, including Stilton, Roquefort and Gorgonzola. Because blue cheese has a good bit of omega-7 fatty acid in it, it’s an excellent “splurge” food, especially for women between the ages of 18 and 29 years.
Olive Oil
If you’re cooking, consider using olive oil. Olive oil is high in unsaturated fatty acids, and it can greatly lower one’s cholesterol due to its high-packed omega-7 fatty acid complex. The health benefits of olive oil, while high, are matched by the ingredient’s incredible versatility. Extra virgin olive oil is heat-resistant, making it incredibly useful as an omega-7 ingredient in oven-cooked meals.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts, native to Australia, are incredibly tasty. Containing nearly twice the amount of healthy fat content as dark chocolate, macadamia nuts are a medium-calorie food which can be used in pancakes, cookies and other baked goods. Macadamia nuts are also high in omega-7 fatty acids, and they’re excellent pound-for-pound ingredients when baking.
Seabuckthorn
Seabuckthorn is the one of the best sources for omega-7s on earth. Because it only grows in the Himalayas, however, it may only be buyable in obscure food markets. While it’s difficult to track down, it’s also incredibly beneficial, nutrition-wise, where cost is considered. Seabuckthorn, for this reason, is included in a lot of omega-7 supplements.
Fish Oil
Fish oil and fish oil supplements can actually contain a heap load of omega-7s. However, there are many different types on the market now and you’d need to do some digging to find the best one for you. Generally speaking, choose one that is from a reputable source with high-quality ingredients – those that are priced too cheap may be not-so-great and contain minimal amounts of omega-7s. Look for the words “palmitoleic acid”.
If you’re looking to increase your omega-7 food stock, the foods and ingredients above should constitute part of your diet. Try to eat omega-7-containing foods at least twice per week, and reap the benefits of long-term hair and skincare. If you’re trying to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, try swapping out your regular cooking ingredients for those listed above. Omega-7s have great antimicrobial properties, making them excellent food ingredients all around.