As its name suggests, ostrich oil is a product extracted from this animal, more precisely from the bird’s abdominal region. Therefore, it is rich in essential fatty acids, such as omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9 .
For this reason, it is regarded as a natural remedy to treat inflammatory conditions such as bronchitis or asthma. It is also indicated to regulate cholesterol levels and skin care.
In pharmacies, ostrich oil can be found in capsules, but the consumption of this product should be recommended by a doctor or nutritionist according to the needs of each patient.
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Ostrich oil: what is it for?
Besides being rich in various types of omega, this oil is also a source of vitamin E and D . Therefore, it is a product that is good for health and aesthetics.
1- Regulates cholesterol
Omega 3, 6 and 9 are allies of heart health, as they help to control the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. At the same time they do not interfere with the levels of good cholesterol (HDL).
In the specific case of type 3, it is possible to affirm that it works by reducing the fat that aggregates in the arteries. Consequently, there is a lower risk of heart attacks and diseases such as atherosclerosis.
2- Fight inflammation
Also through these three essential fatty acids, this oil of animal origin is able to reduce the body’s inflammatory reactions. For example, when there is an infection or tissue damage , the body starts an inflammatory process to get around the problem.
However, this reaction can result in some symptoms such as redness and high temperature in the affected region. That’s because blood flow becomes greater in this area.
Using this product, inflammatory reactions will be milder. In addition, inflammatory diseases are also reduced, such as asthma, bronchitis, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, psoriasis and eczema.
3- Protects and strengthens the brain
The action of omega-3s in the brain is very simple to understand, since this organ is made up of 20% fat. These substances are responsible for several brain functions, such as communication between cells.
Therefore, the absence of this acid can result in mood swings, problems concentrating, complications in motor skills, stress and a host of degenerative brain diseases, such as Alzheimer ‘s disease .
4- Prevents bone diseases
Our body is like a machine that needs certain fuels (nutrients) to work (function) better. For example, calcium is an important mineral for healthy bone growth.
Over the years, we can suffer from serious illnesses, such as osteoporosis, if we don’t have enough of this nutrient. And it’s not enough just to consume foods rich in calcium, but also to ingest essential fatty acids.
This is because omega-6, in addition to contributing to calcium absorption, also reduces the loss of this mineral through the urine. In other words, acid strengthens the presence of calcium in the body, which in turn strengthens bone mass, preventing health problems.
5- Skin care
Ostrich oil protects the skin due to the junction between omega-9 and vitamin E. In the first case, the acid forms the lipids, fats present in the epidermis and which act as a protective barrier against water loss and, consequently, dehydration.
The vitamin in question, on the other hand, has antioxidant activity, protecting the epidermis cells against the action of free radicals. This prevents premature aging, reducing wrinkles and improving skin vigor.
In general, oil of animal origin treats the following dermatological problems: skin inflammation, burns, allergies, diaper rash and scarring cuts.
Also through its antioxidant action, the product in question becomes an alternative to treat hair problems , as it rebuilds the hair fiber. At the same time, it combats external aggressions (exposition to the sun or high temperatures from boards and dryers, pollution and sea or swimming pool water).
6- Protect the cells
The antioxidant power is not only used to protect the skin against aging, but above all to prevent the oxidation of cells and the appearance of degenerative diseases. In addition to the heart problems already mentioned, this action also helps prevent cancer .
Does this product lose weight?
There are still no studies that prove the relationship between ostrich oil and the weight loss process . However, it is known that omega-3 and omega-9 substances, present in the product, are able to reduce inflammation.
In this sense, fatty acids can help control appetite , which directly contributes to weight loss.
How to take ostrich oil?
In general, the consumption of one or two oil capsules per day is recommended. It can be taken together or in separate doses, before or after meals.
But, as stated at the beginning of this article, for the product to work correctly in the body, a specialist needs to recommend doses that meet the patient’s needs.
Where to find?
This product can be found at online or physical health food stores . But the first ostrich oil production company registered with the Federal Inspection Service (SIF) and the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) is Amazon Struthio .
Are there contraindications?
As it is a natural product and a supplement, the oil has no registered contraindication . Despite this, it is recommended that consumption be done consciously and with medical assistance, especially in cases of pregnancy, breastfeeding and patients who use controlled medicines.
Similar product
Vegans and vegetarians do not use ostrich oil, as they are against the use of animal products. To give you an idea, an ostrich only yields only six liters of oil.
However, these groups of people can get these same nutrients in a plant-based oil called Seaberry Omega-7 . It is an antioxidant-rich vegan nutraceutical.
In addition to omega-7, this natural product also contains omega 3, 6 and 9. It is also a source of vitamins C, D and E. Therefore, it is an alternative to ostrich oil.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.