INTERNAL NOURISHMENT

The best dietary ways to support your Endocannabinoid System (EDS)

 

Give attention to lipids if you want a well-functioning Endocannabinoid System (ECS) you need to eat a diet high in “good” fats. The ECS and cellular function depend on the presence of certain types of lipids in cell membranes.

 

Omega-6 fatty acids, longer-chain saturated fat, and trans fats are “bad” fats connected to many diseases, particularly when you don’t consume enough “good” monounsaturated, medium-chain, and omega-3 fats.

 

Not surprisingly, this same dietary pattern is also associated with impaired function of the ECS. Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids are critical because they are considered “essential fatty acids.”

 

Essential fatty acids are fats that the body needs for vital biological functions but cannot produce itself; they must be obtained from food.

 

 

GOOD FATS

Monounsaturated fats

Nuts and seeds

Olive, avocado, canola, and macadamia-nut oils

Sunflower oil (high oleic only)

Alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid

Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil

Walnuts

Chia seeds

Canola oil

Hemp seed oil (considered the best source of fatty acids in terms of omega-3 to omega-6 ratio)

EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids

Coldwater fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, trout, tuna, and sardines

Fish-oil supplements

Medium-chain saturated fats

Coconut oil

Grass-fed meat and dairy

Organic, free-range chicken and eggs

Wild salmon

 

 

BAD FATS

Trans-fats

Partially hydrogenated vegetable oil

Shortening

Margarine

Many baked goods and crackers (look for “trans fats” on the label)

Linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid

Most vegetable oils, including corn, grapeseed, safflower, soy, and sunflower

Oxidized fats

Fried foods

Charbroiled meat

Longer-chain saturated fats

High-fat meat and dairy Grain- or soy-fed meat and dairy

Conventionally raised chicken and eggs Farmed salmon