## Unlock the Beauty Secret: Why Omega-7s Are the Next Big Thing in Wellness
While omega-3s are celebrated for their heart-healthy benefits, omega-6s for their energy-boosting properties, and omega-9s for their cholesterol-lowering abilities, omega-7s are quietly emerging as the “beauty omegas.” These lesser-known fatty acids, found in body tissues like the liver and skin, work at the cellular level to promote healthy fat metabolism, leading to a cascade of positive effects on skin, hair, and nails.
What are Omega-7s?
Omega-7s are monounsaturated fats, with palmitoleic acid being the most prominent. Research suggests that omega-7s, particularly palmitoleic acid, offer similar health benefits to omega-3s, including the ability to:
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Boost Skin Hydration:
Palmitoleic acid’s beta-carotene content contributes to enhanced skin moisture, resulting in a supple, youthful appearance.*
Promote Hair Growth:
Studies suggest that omega-7s may help strengthen hair follicles, leading to thicker, healthier hair.*
Support Nail Health:
Omega-7s can contribute to stronger, less brittle nails.Key Benefits of Omega-7
Beyond their beauty-enhancing properties, omega-7s have been linked to several other health benefits, including:
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Improving Insulin Sensitivity:
A study published in ScienceDirect suggests that palmitoleic acid, found in macadamia nuts, may help reduce the risk of diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity.*
Reducing Inflammation:
Similar to omega-3s, omega-7s possess anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit overall health.Where to Find Omega-7s
While you can find small amounts of omega-7s in foods like salmon, herring, avocados, dairy products, macadamia nuts, and macadamia nut oil, the most abundant source is sea buckthorn oil.
Sea buckthorn oil, extracted from the vibrant orange sea buckthorn berry, has been a staple in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. This oil is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C, making it a valuable addition to both your diet and skincare routine. It can be incorporated into:
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Facial Treatments:
Sea buckthorn oil’s moisturizing and revitalizing properties make it an excellent addition to facial masks and serums.*
Gua Sha Massages:
Its lubricating properties make it ideal for use during Gua Sha massage, a traditional Chinese practice that promotes blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.*
Nail Conditioning:
Apply sea buckthorn oil to your nails to strengthen and nourish them.*
Hair Masks:
Sea buckthorn oil can be added to hair masks to enhance shine and promote healthy hair growth.Ensuring Adequate Omega-7 Intake
If you’re not a frequent consumer of fatty fish, avocados, or macadamia nuts, supplementing with sea buckthorn oil is a great way to boost your omega-7 intake. You can take it orally (1 teaspoon before meals) or incorporate it into salad dressings. Look for organic, cold-pressed oil for the best quality.
Alternatively, omega-7 supplements made from sea buckthorn oil or powder are available in capsule form, with powder offering versatility for smoothies and shakes.
How Much Omega-7 Should You Take?
While there’s no established daily recommended dose for omega-7s, supplements typically contain concentrations up to 500 milligrams. A study published in Clean Eating suggests that even small doses of omega-7, around 210 milligrams daily, may provide significant health benefits.
Embrace the Power of Omega-7s
By incorporating omega-7s into your diet and skincare routine, you can unlock their beauty-boosting and health-enhancing potential. From radiant skin to stronger hair and nails, omega-7s are a valuable addition to any wellness journey.
