Omega-7: Unlocking the Secret to Radiant Skin and Optimal Health

In the ever-evolving world of wellness and beauty, omega-7 fatty acids are making a name for themselves. While omega-3s have long been celebrated for their anti-inflammatory benefits and support for heart and brain health, omega-7s are emerging as the new “beauty omegas.” These powerful fatty acids work at the cellular level to enhance skin, hair, and nail health, while also offering a range of broader health benefits. Here’s why omega-7s deserve a spot in your supplement routine.

What Are Omega-7s?

Omega-7s are monounsaturated fats primarily found in body tissues such as the liver and skin. They include compounds like palmitoleic acid, rumenic acid, and vaccenic acid. Research suggests that omega-7s offer multiple health benefits, similar to omega-3s. Palmitoleic acid, in particular, is known for its ability to boost skin hydration due to its beta-carotene content.

Key Benefits of Omega-7

A diet rich in omega-7 can offer a variety of health and beauty benefits:

Supports Collagen Production: Omega-7s stimulate collagen production, enhancing skin, hair, and nail health while improving skin hydration.
Moisturizes Mucous Membranes: They help moisturize mucous membranes across the body, including the gastrointestinal tract, reproductive system, and oral cavity.
Hydrates the Eyes: Omega-7s can combat dry eye syndrome by hydrating the eyes.
Balances Cholesterol Levels: They reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol, supporting cardiovascular health.
Boosts Brain and Cognitive Function: Omega-7s benefit brain health and cognitive function while also improving gastrointestinal health.
Promotes Fat Metabolism: They aid in fat metabolism and blood sugar regulation, potentially aiding in weight management.
Alleviates Post-Menopausal Dryness: Omega-7s can alleviate dryness in skin and mucous membranes post-menopause.
Reduces Inflammation: They help reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for managing chronic conditions.

A study published in ScienceDirect found that palmitoleic acid from macadamia nuts may help reduce the risk of diabetes.

Where to Find Omega-7s

While foods such as salmon, herring, avocados, dairy products, macadamia nuts, and macadamia nut oil contain small amounts of omega-7, the richest source is sea buckthorn oil. Extracted from the orange-hued sea buckthorn berry, native to the Himalayan foothills, this oil has long been valued in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C, sea buckthorn oil is also frequently used in skincare for its moisturizing and revitalizing properties. It’s excellent for facial treatments, Gua Sha massages, nail conditioning, and hair masks.

Ensuring Adequate Omega-7 Intake

If you’re not regularly consuming fatty fish, avocados, and macadamia nuts, supplementing with sea buckthorn oil is a reliable way to boost your omega-7 intake. Sea buckthorn oil can be taken orally (1 teaspoon before meals) or used raw in salad dressings. Opt 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 versions offering versatility for smoothies and shakes.

How Much Omega-7 Should You Take?

While there is no established daily recommended dose for omega-7s, supplements typically contain concentrations up to 500 milligrams. A study by the Cleveland Clinic and Xyrion Medical Institute suggests that even small doses of omega-7, around 210 milligrams daily, may provide significant health benefits.