LDL cholesterol, the “bad cholesterol”, is one of the main causes of cardiovascular disease. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) can be useful in small quantities, but larger amounts can be damaging to your health. As we age, the cells that make up the inner lining of blood vessels are more likely to break, but LDL can prevent this from happening and actually works to repair these cells. When LDL cholesterol is present in large quantities, it clogs up the blood cells with plaque, which can lead to hypertension, coronary heart disease, peripheral arterial disease or carotid artery disease. Omega 7s promote healthy LDL cholesterol levels so that the inner surface of your blood vessels stays in optimal shape, without blockages.

Omega 7 fatty acids are useful in increasing levels of HDL cholesterol, which is also known as the “good cholesterol”. When this happens, omega 7 helps flush out LDL cholesterol out of your system, thus reducing the risk of coronary heart disease. This increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) helps break down LDL cholesterol in arteries, carrying it on to the liver, where excess cholesterol is flushed out.

Keeping your triglycerides in check is extremely important, as they fuel you with energy and protect against cold temperatures by helping with the storage of fat-soluble vitamins. When your triglyceride levels increase, you are more prone to developing heart conditions and fatty liver disease, which is known to cause diabetes. Omega 7 maintains an optimal balance in your system so that you get all the benefits with no side effects or health concerns. Another study, this time from the University of Alberta, indicated that vaccenic acid (fatty acids in dairy) can lower triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol after sixteen weeks of use. Vaccenic acid closely resembles omega 7, and this similarity may be a possible explanation for the numerous health benefits of omega 7.

Healthy individuals are naturally sensitive to insulin — a hormone made in the pancreas that tells your body to store sugar (glucose_ for future use, or use sugar from carbs to get energy. Insulin also regulates blood sugar levels so that they won’t get too low (hypoglycemia), or too high (hyperglycemia). People who are resistant to insulin are also exposed to glucose-borne toxins and more susceptible to developing diabetes mellitus type 2, and later on to renal failure and cardiovascular disease. Omega 7 fatty acids promote healthy insulin sensitivity, which allows you to metabolize glucose more efficiently. Omega-7 fatty acids also fight metabolic syndrome.

Research shows omega 7 fatty acids can lower inflammation by reducing levels of C-reactive protein — a blood marker of inflammation. When the immune system responds to damaging stimuli, inflammation helps the body’s healing process. However, irregularities in this process can happen and they cause chronic inflammation and disease. One study actually revealed that taking 210mg of omega 7 per day generated a 73% reduction in levels of C-reactive protein. A similar study concluded that taking 210mg/day of palmitoleic acid can reduce CRP levels by 43%, and with it the dangers of cardiovascular disease. Research shows that protection against chronic inflammation is among the top benefits of omega 7, as this fatty acid can prevent Alzheimer’s, type 1 diabetes, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases.

The next on our list of omega 7 benefits is weight loss. Research suggests omega 7 fatty acids can stop pesky hunger pangs. Omega 7 has been shown to help manage leptin — the hormone through which fat cells signal your brain that your energy thermostat is working properly. When this happens, leptin works more efficiently, making you feel fuller for longer, but it also promotes healthy bowel movements, makes losing weight easier, and prevents weight gain. Another omega 7 weight loss benefit is that this fatty acid has been demonstrated to accelerate fatty acid oxidation and moderate de novo lipogenesis. This means omega 7 fatty acids promote energy expenditure and prevent the formation of fat stores, using existing fat as a source of energy. There are many omega 7 supplements that suggest you can achieve extreme fat burning with these fatty acids, but this is not necessarily true. While omega 7 does have weight loss benefits, don’t expect drastic weight loss results without some exercise or dieting.

In Eastern medicine, people have used omega 7 to relieve gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers. When larger quantities of omega 7 fatty acids build up, they coat the inner lining of the intestines and stomach, shielding them from damage and disease. Thus, omega 7 benefits those suffering from pain from stress-created-ulcers or acidic foods. If you’re feeling pains and burnings in your stomach, omega 7 fatty acids should benefit your GI health by lubricating the mucous membrane, which in turn also provide you with more energy.

Omega 7 can be found in plants such as sea buckthorn, and this fatty acid can rejuvenate the skin and speed up its healing time after suffering damage. These fatty acids are extremely nourishing, can increase collagen levels and fortifies the skin to prevent injuries. Omega 7 fatty acids also help heal burns, eczema, lesions, abrasions, and sun damaged skin. Researchers are currently evaluating other possible omega 7 benefits for the skin, such as reducing wrinkles and visible aging signs and fighting dryness. In fact, omega 7 is excellent for dry skin, moisturizing chapped skin and sealing in the moisture. But the good news don’t stop here, as omega 7 benefits your skin and nails, promotes hair growth, while being effective for dry eyes. Omega 7 fatty acids are high in antioxidants, phytosterols, carotenoid, beta-carotene, and vitamins C and E, which are substances proven effective in skincare and skin repair products.

Promotes healthy HDL cholesterol levels Reduces LDL cholesterol Soothes inflammation Lowers triglycerides Improves blood sugar levels Promotes weight loss Reduces insulin resistance Provides antioxidant support Supports heart health Helps with several skin conditions such as acne Reduces production of fat in the liver Increases energy levels Supports healthy GI function Reduces arterial plaque