Jon-Carlo Astorina
Contributing Writer
Making Sense of Essential Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential, meaning they are needed but cannot be produced by the body. Omega-3 fatty acids play key roles in brain function and growth development. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation with injuries and help reduce the risk factors for many diseases like heart disease, arthritis, and cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, plants and nut oils.
Omega-6 fatty acids are also essential. Like Omega-3, we must rely on diet sources for our intake. Omega-3 fatty acids play key roles in skin and hair growth, bone health and regulating metabolism. Most diets contain adequate (if not more than enough) amounts of Omega-6 fatty acids. This is primarily due to its presence in processed foods and cooking oils.
Omega-9 fatty acids are actually not considered an essential fatty acid. Our bodies have the ability to produce it, however this can only happen if Omega-3 and Omega-6 are present. If either of these is not present or deficient, our bodies will not produce Omega-9, making it essential. Olive oil and avocados are rich in Omega-9.
When you hear people talking about incorporating a diet rich in “good fats,” these are what they are referring to. The emphasis is usually placed on Omega-3, since this the most deficient in the American diet. It is largely found in and obtained from fish, however studies are showing that people are consuming less fish and more processed junk food – leading them to have little Omega-3 intake and way too much Omega-6. This is being attributed to the obesity epidemic we are now seeing.
Don’t let the word “fat” frighten you. Don’t confuse these good fatty acids with the more commonly known saturated fats found in red meat, milk and cheese etc. I’m sure you have all heard of trans fats/hydrogenated oils which are commonly found in margarine and snack items. Saturated fats and trans fats are the culprits that can be converted to body fat and cause health problems.
Bodybuilding Accomplishments:
2011 ABA Natural Illinois Bodybuilding, Fitness, and Figure Championships
2nd Place Novice Short Class
3rd Place Open Short Class
2011 NGA Heart of America Natural Classic
1st Place Novice Lightweight
1st Place Open Lightweight
1st Place OVERALL NOVICE
2011 NANBF Probody Solutions Natural
1st Place Open Short Class
2011 NGA Titan Classic
OVERALL OPEN MEN WINNER – PRO CARD AWARDED
Jon-Carlo Astorina is a Team JBT Athlete
See More: http://www.nationalgym.com/
BIO:
JC was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. He now resides in Bloomington, IL and works as a private detective for a prominaent PI firm out of Chicago. JC studied Criminal Justice at Illinois State University. He is married with four children. Besides his family, JC’s greatest passion in life is bodybuilding and fitness – a hobby he picked up in college.
JC has been bodybuilding for roughly four years and started competing in 2011. He has a short but impressive competitive resume. To date he has competed in four drug tested bodybuilding competitions, earning his Pro Card at his last competition. He is recognized as a Professional Natural Bodybuilder by the National Gym Association (NGA).
